Vietnam Family Holiday 14 Days

Embark on a 14-day adventure through Vietnam that combines the historical richness and modern vibrancy of its cities with the serene beauty of its countryside and islands. Starting with your arrival in Hanoi, this tour offers a deep dive into Vietnam’s culture with a motorbike tour of the capital, including visits to key historical sites and indulging in famous street foods. Transition from urban exploration to the natural wonders of Ha Long Bay, where you will cruise amidst towering limestone karsts and enjoy onboard activities like tai chi, kayaking, and squid fishing.

From Ha Long, travel to the central coast to experience the charming town of Hoi An, known for its well-preserved Ancient Town and vibrant local life. Here, engage in unique cultural experiences like a cooking class in a local village and explore the town’s rich history and architecture. The journey also includes a visit to the Cu Chi Tunnels near Ho Chi Minh City, providing insight into the ingenuity of wartime strategies.

The latter part of the tour is a relaxing retreat to the beautiful island of Phu Quoc, where pristine beaches and lush landscapes offer a perfect end to your travels. Enjoy leisure days filled with options for snorkeling, beach relaxation, and exploring local crafts. This comprehensive tour concludes with a return to the bustling streets of Ho Chi Minh City, perfectly rounding off your experience of Vietnam’s diverse landscapes and cultural tapestry.

Itinerary

Day 1: Hanoi Arrival (D, GP)

Upon landing at Noi Bai airport in Hanoi, a warm greeting awaits from our representative who will facilitate your transfer to the hotel. Settle in and unwind from your journey. As evening approaches, enjoy a special candlelit ‘Welcome’ dinner, offering a perfect blend of local flavors and a serene atmosphere, setting the stage for your adventure in Vietnam.

Day 2: Hanoi City Tour by Motorbike (B, Street Food, G)

Kick off the day with an exhilarating motorbike tour through the vibrant streets of Hanoi. Your first visit is to the insightful Women’s Museum, a tribute to the women of Vietnam with an emphasis on their roles throughout history, especially during wartime. Next, explore the historic Temple of Literature, Vietnam’s first university, established in the 11th century, a serene haven of scholarly learning and Confucian traditions.

The adventure continues in Hanoi’s bustling Old Quarter. Experience the city’s pulse as you navigate through its maze-like streets. Indulge in a street food brunch where you can savor iconic dishes such as Pho, Banh Goi, and Bun Cha. Conclude your tour with a visit to the historic Long Bien Bridge, an architectural marvel offering insights into local life along the Red River. The evening is yours to explore or relax back at your hotel.

Alternative for Day 2: Hanoi Orientation by Car (B, L, G)

For those preferring a less adventurous mode of travel, a private car tour of Hanoi is available. This alternative provides a comfortable and comprehensive tour of the city’s major landmarks without the hustle of a motorbike ride.

Day 3: Hanoi to Ha Long Bay via Shuttle Bus (L, D, G on board)

Start with a hearty breakfast before departing for Ha Long Bay, a UNESCO World Heritage Site known for its stunning natural beauty and geological significance. Arrive at Tuan Chau Marina for check-in procedures before boarding the Orchid Cruises. Set sail around noon, enjoying lunch as you navigate through majestic limestone karsts and islets of Lan Ha Bay.

Visit the serene Trung Trang Cave, a natural wonder within Cat Ba National Park, before the cruise heads to the tranquil area of Tra Bau. Engage in activities such as kayaking or swimming in the emerald waters, followed by a sunset party with a buy-one-get-one-free happy hour. Dinner on board is a blend of French neoclassical and traditional Vietnamese culinary styles, providing an elegant end to a day full of exploration. There are also optional spa facilities on board available at extra cost.

For your Ha Long excursion, you’ll board the luxurious Orchid Trendy cruise. This elegant vessel boasts 20 stunning cabins, all designed with contemporary flair. Most cabins feature private balconies, providing your own personal outdoor space to enjoy the breathtaking views of Halong Bay.

Each air-conditioned cabin comes with windows that overlook the bay and is furnished with either two twin beds or a double queen/king-sized bed. You’ll be treated to all meals on board, typically featuring fresh seafood, ensuring a delightful culinary experience throughout your journey.

Day 4: Lan Ha Bay to Hanoi (Brunch, G on board)

Greet the morning with a refreshing Tai Chi session on the sundeck, offering panoramic views of the bay at sunrise. After breakfast, partake in further activities such as kayaking in the Ao Ech area, exploring more secluded parts of Ha Long Bay. Brunch is served as you cruise back to Tuan Chau Marina. Disembark midday and return to Hanoi by shuttle bus, arriving in the late afternoon. The rest of the day is free for you to enjoy at your leisure in Hanoi.

This expanded itinerary provides a comprehensive and engaging introduction to Northern Vietnam, blending cultural experiences with natural wonders to create a memorable start to your journey.

Day 5: Hanoi to Danang to Hoi An (B, L, G)

After a leisurely morning in Hanoi, prepare for your noon flight to Danang. Upon arrival, embark on a brief tour of the Cham Museum, which houses the largest collection of Cham sculpture and artwork in the world, offering a glimpse into the rich cultural heritage of the Champa Kingdom.

Next, travel to Hoi An, a UNESCO World Heritage site known for its well-preserved Ancient Town. Check into your hotel before taking a guided walking tour through the historic district. Explore the beautifully preserved merchant houses, colourful marketplaces, and narrow lanes that tell tales of a bygone era. you can conclude the day with a dinner at one of Hoi An’s renowned restaurants, where you can enjoy local specialties in a charming setting or simply a restaurant of your choice on the riverside, which comes alive at night.

Day 6: Hoi An – Cooking Class and Tra Que Vegetable Village (B, L, G)

Begin the day with a visit to Tra Que Vegetable Village, where you’ll participate in a hands-on cooking class. This excursion starts with a bicycle ride through the countryside, immersing you in the scenic landscapes and tranquil life of local farmers. Learn about organic farming practices and pick fresh herbs yourself.

After cycling back to the cooking school, engage in a culinary session where you’ll prepare traditional Vietnamese dishes under the guidance of expert chefs. Enjoy the fruits of your labor by savoring a meal of the dishes you’ve cooked, offering a deep dive into Vietnam’s culinary traditions.

Return to Hoi An for an afternoon at leisure, providing time to explore more of the town’s historical sights or shop for tailor-made clothes and handcrafted souvenirs.

Day 7: Full Day Leisure in Hoi An (B)

Take a well-deserved break with a full day to relax or explore Hoi An at your own pace. Opt to visit the pristine local beaches, take a boat ride on the Thu Bon River, or continue wandering through the enchanting streets of the Old Town. Optional activities such as a lantern-making workshop or a sunset kayak trip on the river can be arranged to enrich your experience in this magical town.

Day 8: Hoi An to Danang to Ho Chi Minh City – Evening Street Food Tour (B, D, G)

After a free morning to enjoy Hoi An, transfer to Danang for a flight to Ho Chi Minh City. Settle into your hotel before embarking on an exhilarating evening street food tour by scooter. This adventure offers a taste of local life and flavors, with stops in vibrant street food markets where you can sample specialties like Pho and Banh Mi.

Explore districts rarely visited by tourists, dive into back alleys, and learn about Saigon’s unique culinary scene from your local guide. The guide will be happy to include a visit to the Nguyen Thien Thuat area, one of the most famous street food areas in Saigon with the considerable diversity in the style of the cuisine and local culture. Cap the night off with a visit to a popular local hangout to enjoy a refreshing beer and soak up the bustling nightlife.

Day 9: Cu Chi Tunnels and City Tour (B, L, G)

Start the day with a trip to the Cu Chi Tunnels, an immense network of connecting underground tunnels that played a crucial role during the Vietnam War. Here, gain insight into the ingenuity and resilience of the Viet Cong.

Return to Ho Chi Minh City for lunch, followed by an afternoon city tour. Visit landmarks such as the Reunification Palace, the historic Central Post Office, and the Notre Dame Cathedral (exterior views). The tour also includes a visit to the Jade Emperor Pagoda, an atmospheric temple filled with intricate carvings and religious statues.

Each day is designed to offer a mix of historical insight, cultural immersion, relaxation, and culinary delights, ensuring a comprehensive and enjoyable experience of Vietnam’s rich heritage and vibrant present. You will have free time to enjoy Ho Chi Minh City as you choose.

Day 10: Mekong Delta by Speedboat (B, L, G)

Your day begins early as you depart from your hotel to the pier where you board a speedboat destined for the Mekong Delta. As you navigate through the network of waterways, you’ll experience the vibrancy of the Delta’s river life. The journey includes a stop at a local pagoda to understand the spiritual dimension of Delta communities.

Continue to a bustling riverside market where you can engage with local traders and sample exotic fruits. The tour then takes you through the narrow canals of the Thu Thua area, where you can observe traditional riverside dwellings and lush greenery. Participate in interactive experiences such as coconut processing at a local artisan’s home.

Enjoy a traditional lunch at a riverside restaurant, offering dishes made from fresh local ingredients. In the afternoon, visit a unique Cao Dai Temple and learn about this fascinating syncretistic Vietnamese religion and admire the architectural buildings of the temple and the monks that live there.

You will return back to Ho Chi Minh City for one more night before travelling for your next destination.

Day 11: Departure to Phu Quoc (B)

After breakfast, a morning flight takes you from Ho Chi Minh City to Phu Quoc Island. Upon arrival, transfer to your beachfront resort where you can settle in and enjoy the tranquil surroundings. Spend the remainder of your day relaxing by the sea or exploring the sandy beaches of Phu Quoc.

Day 12-13: Phu Quoc Leisure Days (B)

Enjoy a full day at leisure on Phu Quoc Island, known for its white sandy beaches and tropical waters. Optional activities include snorkeling, diving among the coral reefs, or visiting a local pepper farm or the famous fish sauce factory for which the island is renowned. Alternatively, explore the island’s national park on a guided jungle trek to witness its diverse flora and fauna. Or maybe consider renting a scooter to tour the island at your own pace, visiting remote beaches and the quaint fishing villages that dot the coastline.

Day 14: Return to Ho Chi Minh City (B, DP)

After breakfast, enjoy some free time until your transfer to Phu Quoc airport for the flight back to Ho Chi Minh City. Depending on your flight schedule, you might have some time to explore more of Ho Chi Minh City or do some last-minute shopping before your international departure.

Each day of this segment of your tour is designed to provide a balance between relaxation and light adventure, making the most of the serene and beautiful environment of Phu Quoc, before smoothly transitioning you back to the urban vibrancy of Ho Chi Minh City for your departure.

Key

B = Breakfast

L = Lunch

D = Dinner

G = Guide

GP = Guide pick-up

DP = Driver pick-up

Price

The prices for this sample tour are per person in US dollars:

These prices are valid until March 31, 2025. Please note that bank transfer fees are not included.

Number in group

3 – 4

5 – 8

9 – 12

Supplement for single hotel room occupancy*

Superior

(four stars)

1,920

1,818

1,705

1,660

894

Note:
Price is not valid for the Peak season, please contact us again for price checking and availability

Peak season: Dec 20^th, 2024- Jan 10, 2025, and TET (Jan 26 – Feb 10, 2025)

* ‘Single room occupancy’ refers to the accommodation element of the programme only, and applies to someone who is travelling with others but requires an additional room for him or herself. Single traveller prices are available on request.

Inclusions

Breakfast and accommodation sharing a twin or double room.
Pick-ups and transfers by private air-conditioned vehicle as specified in the itinerary above (Please note: pick-ups will be by a guide and driver or, where a guide is not necessary, a driver only. All unaccompanied drivers will be briefed in advance, and will carry a mobile phone to ensure smooth transfer arrangements)
Domestic flight tickets: Hanoi – Danang// Ho Chi Minh City – Phu Quoc – Ho Chi Minh, including domestic airport taxes.
Boat cruises as specified in the programme. All Ha Long Bay boats will be fully licensed and comply with current safety regulations.
Travel in an appropriate private air-conditioned vehicle with an experienced safe driver.
The services of experienced English-speaking guides as indicated in the itinerary (please note: guides will be on hand from pick-up until guests’ return to their hotel or reaching their destination). Free days or part days will not include the services of a guide unless requested and included in the final itinerary.
Where necessary, entry fees for all visits as mentioned in the programme.
Lunches and dinners (as specified in the itinerary) in the best local restaurants, or picnics where no suitable restaurant is available, and full board on the boat in Ha Long Bay.
VAT and other taxes

Exclusions

International flight tickets and airport tax.
Visas
Lunches and dinners, except as specified above.
Drinks, gratuities and personal expenses.
Insurance
Alternatives in blue
Surcharges for Peak seasons (if any)
Compulsory meal (if any)

Hotel List

Hanoi: MK Premier Boutique Hotel (a Vietnamese style hotel, located in the Hanoi Old quarter – Luxury City View room)
Lan Ha Bay: Orchid Trendy Cruise (**** Deluxe quality boat with elegant design – Deluxe Balcony cabin)
Hoi An: La Senta Hoi An (**** nice boutique hotel, well-appointed in Hoi An town – Deluxe Rice Field view)
Ho Chi Minh City: Eden Star Saigon hotel (city centre location, nice rooftop swimming pool – Premium Deluxe room)
Phu Quoc Island: Ocean Bay Phu Quoc (offers endless possibilities to immerse in the heartfelt beauty of Phu Quoc island – Ocean Breeze Bungalow)

Please note that Vietnam hotels do not recognise provisional reservations, so specific hotels cannot be guaranteed until you have booked your chosen tour. As many of the better hotels are often full during the October to April peak season, early booking is advisable.

Tour FAQ's

1. What should I pack for this tour? For this diverse 14-day tour across Vietnam, we recommend packing light, breathable clothing suitable for warm weather, alongside a few layers for cooler evenings, especially in Hanoi and Ha Long Bay. Comfortable walking shoes are a must for city tours and rural excursions. Don’t forget swimwear for Ha Long Bay and Phu Quoc Island, and consider rain gear depending on the season.

2. Do I need a visa to travel to Vietnam? Most travelers will need a visa to enter Vietnam. We offer assistance with obtaining your visa either in advance or on arrival, depending on your nationality. Please ensure your passport has at least six months of validity from the date of your arrival into Vietnam.

3. What are the accommodations like? Accommodations range from comfortable and centrally located hotels in the cities to a charming cruise ship in Ha Long Bay and a luxurious beach resort in Phu Quoc. All accommodations are selected for their quality, location, and hospitality to ensure a comfortable stay throughout your trip.

4. How strenuous are the activities? Activities are designed to be accessible to most fitness levels. In cities, expect some walking during tours. In Ha Long Bay, activities include kayaking and light hiking. The visit to Phu Quoc is more relaxed, though optional activities like snorkeling and cycling are available.

5. Is travel insurance required? While travel insurance is not mandatory, it is highly recommended. Ensure your policy covers medical expenses, trip cancellation, and luggage loss. This will help safeguard your trip against unforeseen circumstances.

6. Can dietary restrictions be accommodated? Yes, we can accommodate most dietary restrictions including vegetarian, vegan, and gluten-free options. Please notify us of any specific requirements or allergies before your trip begins.

7. What are the transportation modes during the tour? Transport includes private vehicles, domestic flights between cities, a motorbike tour in Hanoi, a cruise in Ha Long Bay, and tuk-tuks in Hoi An. All modes of transport are chosen to provide comfort and convenience, and offer an authentic travel experience.

8. What is the group size for this tour? To ensure a personalized and enjoyable experience, our group sizes are kept small, typically ranging from 10 to 18 participants. This allows for more interaction with the guide and fellow travelers.

9. What cultural norms should I be aware of? Vietnamese culture values modesty and respect, especially in rural areas and places of worship. Dress conservatively when visiting temples and always ask permission before taking photos of locals. Being polite and showing respect to elders and local customs is highly appreciated.

10. What is the best time of year to take this tour? Vietnam can be visited year-round, but the best time for this tour is during the spring (February to April) and autumn (August to October) when the weather is more temperate and rainfall is minimal.