Experience the very best of Vietnam on this 21-day Vietnam tour from Hanoi to Ho Chi Minh City. Designed for travelers who want to discover Vietnam beyond the main highlights, this comprehensive 21-day Vietnam itinerary combines fascinating cities, spectacular landscapes, UNESCO World Heritage Sites, local culture and relaxing coastal experiences.
Your journey begins in Hanoi, Vietnam’s historic capital, before heading north to Sapa and Bac Ha. Trek through scenic mountain landscapes, discover terraced rice fields and experience the traditional way of life of local ethnic communities. Continue to Ha Long Bay for an overnight cruise among limestone islands and emerald waters.
The journey then takes you to Central Vietnam, where you will explore the imperial heritage of Hue, the charming streets of Hoi An Ancient Town and the ancient My Son Sanctuary. These destinations offer a fascinating insight into Vietnam’s royal history, traditional architecture and cultural heritage.
Travel south to Nha Trang for time by the coast before continuing to Da Lat, known for its pleasant climate, beautiful landscapes, waterfalls and distinctive Central Highlands culture. Your Vietnam tour from Hanoi to Ho Chi Minh City concludes in southern Vietnam with time to discover the vibrant energy and historic landmarks of Ho Chi Minh City and the waterways, villages and tropical landscapes of the Mekong Delta.
This 21-day Vietnam tour is ideal for travelers looking for a well-balanced Vietnam itinerary that combines cultural discovery, nature, local experiences and relaxation. With a private journey and a carefully planned route from north to south, it offers an excellent way to experience the diversity of Vietnam in three weeks.
Upon arrival at Hanoi International Airport, you will be warmly welcomed by your Paradise Travel guide and driver. Transfer to your hotel in the city center and take some time to relax after your journey.
Your guide will provide a brief introduction to your 21-day Vietnam tour, including the itinerary and useful information for your stay.
The rest of the day is free at leisure. You can relax at the hotel or take a gentle walk around Hanoi’s Old Quarter to get your first impression of Vietnam’s capital.
Overnight in Hanoi.
Start your Hanoi sightseeing tour with the Ho Chi Minh Complex, including the Ho Chi Minh Mausoleum and One Pillar Pagoda. Continue to Tran Quoc Pagoda and the Temple of Literature, Vietnam’s first national university founded in 1076.
After lunch, visit the Vietnam Museum of Ethnology to learn about the country’s diverse ethnic communities. Continue to Hoan Kiem Lake and Hanoi’s Old Quarter before enjoying a traditional water puppet show.
In the evening, transfer to Hanoi Railway Station for the overnight train to Lao Cai and your journey to Sapa.
Overnight on the train.
Temple of Literature – Hanoi
Arrive at Lao Cai Railway Station early in the morning and transfer to Sapa, a beautiful mountain town surrounded by spectacular valleys and rice terraces. After breakfast and some time to refresh, begin your trekking adventure.
Walk through the scenic Muong Hoa Valley to Lao Chai Village, home to the Black Hmong people. Continue to Ta Van Village to discover the traditional lifestyle of local communities and enjoy views of the surrounding rice terraces.
The trek continues towards Giang Ta Chai Village, where you can meet members of the Red Dao community and enjoy the natural scenery.
Return to Sapa in the afternoon. The remainder of the day is free to explore the town or visit Sapa Market.
Overnight in Sapa.
Beautiful rice terraces in Sapa
After breakfast, leave Sapa for Bac Ha, one of the most colorful destinations in northern Vietnam. If your visit falls on Sunday, explore the famous Bac Ha Market, where local communities gather to trade agricultural products, handicrafts and everyday goods.
Continue to Ban Pho Village, home to the Flower Hmong community. Enjoy a walk through the village and observe traditional houses, local agriculture and everyday life in the highlands.
In the afternoon, transfer to Lao Cai Railway Station for the overnight train back to Hanoi.
If the tour does not coincide with Sunday, an alternative local market can be arranged according to your travel date.
Overnight on the train.
Bac Ha Market
Arrive in Hanoi early in the morning and have breakfast before continuing to Ha Long Bay, one of Vietnam’s most iconic natural landscapes.
Upon arrival at the cruise port, board your overnight cruise and begin exploring the emerald waters and spectacular limestone karsts of Ha Long Bay. Enjoy lunch on board while cruising through the bay and take part in activities offered by your cruise such as cave visits, kayaking or swimming, depending on the cruise program.
As the sun sets over the limestone islands, relax on the sundeck and enjoy dinner surrounded by the peaceful scenery.
Overnight on the Ha Long Bay cruise.
Wake up early to enjoy the peaceful atmosphere of Ha Long Bay at sunrise. After breakfast, continue exploring the bay and visit one of its impressive caves, depending on the cruise itinerary.
Enjoy the final views of the limestone islands while cruising back towards the harbor. After disembarkation, return to Hanoi by private vehicle.
Arrive in Hanoi in the afternoon and check into your hotel. The rest of the day is free to relax or explore the Hanoi Old Quarter at your own pace.
Overnight in Hanoi.
Halong Bay
Halong Bay
Enjoy a relaxed morning in Hanoi before taking a domestic flight to Hue, the former imperial capital of Vietnam.
Upon arrival, your guide and driver will welcome you at the airport and transfer you to your hotel. Take some time to settle in and relax.
Depending on your flight schedule, you can spend the remainder of the day discovering Hue at your own pace. A walk along the Perfume River or through the local streets offers a gentle introduction to this historic city.
Overnight in Hue.
The Famous Huong River in Hue
Today, discover the royal heritage of Hue, the former capital of Vietnam’s Nguyen Dynasty.
Begin with the Imperial City, surrounded by impressive walls and gates. Explore important monuments including Thai Hoa Palace, the Nine Dynastic Urns and the former royal quarters.
Hue is also known for its distinctive architecture, traditional culture and peaceful atmosphere along the Perfume River. Your guide will introduce you to the history of the Nguyen emperors and explain the significance of the imperial complex.
After the sightseeing tour, return to your hotel and enjoy the rest of the day at leisure.
Overnight in Hue.
Continue exploring Hue’s cultural heritage with a visit to Thien Mu Pagoda, one of the city’s most recognizable landmarks overlooking the Perfume River.
Continue to the Tomb of Emperor Minh Mang, known for its harmonious combination of architecture, gardens and natural surroundings. After lunch, visit the Tomb of Emperor Tu Duc, set among peaceful lakes and wooded hills.
The final stop is the Tomb of Emperor Khai Dinh, an elaborate monument combining traditional Vietnamese and European architectural influences.
Return to your hotel in the late afternoon.
Overnight in Hue.
Leave Hue and travel south towards Hoi An, passing through the spectacular Hai Van Pass and along the central coast of Vietnam.
Enjoy views of Lang Co Bay before continuing to Da Nang. Visit the Museum of Cham Sculpture, home to an important collection of artifacts from the ancient Champa civilization.
Continue to the Marble Mountains, a group of limestone and marble hills featuring caves, pagodas and Buddhist sanctuaries. After the visit, continue to Hoi An and check into your hotel.
The evening is free to explore the atmospheric streets and riverside of Hoi An Ancient Town.
Overnight in Hoi An.
Stop at Non Nuoc Beach, made famous in the American TV series of the same name. It stretches for many miles north and south of the Marble Mountains. The Marble Mountains surrounding the area are five stone hillocks – once islands made of marble – and each is said to represent one of the five elements of the universe. There are many natural caves in which Buddhist sanctuaries have been built over the centuries. Transfer to Hoi An Ancient Town. Check in hotel & overnight in Hoi An.
Spend the day discovering the cultural charm of Hoi An Ancient Town, a former international trading port and one of Vietnam’s best-preserved historic towns.
Explore the narrow streets and historic architecture with visits to highlights such as the Japanese Covered Bridge, traditional merchant houses and historic assembly halls. Learn about Hoi An’s multicultural heritage and its connections with traders from across Asia.
In the afternoon, continue to Tra Que Vegetable Village, where you can see traditional farming practices and learn about the local agricultural lifestyle.
Return to Hoi An in the late afternoon. The evening is free to enjoy the lantern-lit streets, riverside cafes and local restaurants.
Overnight in Hoi An.
After breakfast, depart Hoi An for My Son Sanctuary, a UNESCO World Heritage Site and one of the most important archaeological sites in Vietnam.
Located in a lush valley surrounded by mountains, My Son was once the religious and political center of the ancient Champa Kingdom. Explore the remaining red-brick temple towers and learn about the history and cultural significance of the Cham civilization.
Return to Hoi An for lunch.
The afternoon is free to relax or continue exploring the town at your own pace. You can visit local shops and tailor stores or simply enjoy the relaxed atmosphere of the historic center.
Overnight in Hoi An.
Enjoy a relaxed morning in Hoi An before transferring to Da Nang International Airport for your domestic flight to Nha Trang, one of Vietnam’s most popular coastal destinations.
Upon arrival, your guide and driver will welcome you and transfer you to your hotel.
The rest of the day is free to relax after the journey. Enjoy the beach, explore the city center or simply unwind at your hotel or resort.
Nha Trang offers a pleasant change of pace after the cultural discoveries of northern and central Vietnam.
Overnight in Nha Trang.
Nha Trang beach
Today, discover the beautiful coastline and islands of Nha Trang Bay.
Transfer to Cau Da Port and board a boat for an excursion among the islands. Visit Tri Nguyen Aquarium on Mieu Island before continuing towards Hon Mun Island, known for its clear waters and marine life.
Depending on sea and weather conditions, enjoy opportunities for swimming or snorkeling before having lunch on one of the islands.
In the afternoon, cruise back towards Nha Trang and return to your hotel.
The evening is free to relax or enjoy the city’s restaurants and seaside atmosphere.
Overnight in Nha Trang.
Today is a free day to enjoy Nha Trang at your own pace.
Relax on the beach, enjoy the facilities at your hotel or resort or choose from a range of optional activities. You may arrange snorkeling, diving, a spa treatment or a private island excursion depending on your interests and the weather conditions.
For those who prefer a more relaxed day, simply enjoy the sea views and take a break from sightseeing.
This free day provides a comfortable balance between the active touring schedule and the final stages of your 21-day Vietnam itinerary.
Overnight in Nha Trang.
After breakfast, leave Nha Trang and travel inland to Da Lat, a charming city in Vietnam’s Central Highlands.
The journey takes approximately 4.5 hours by private vehicle and offers changing scenery as you travel from the coast into the mountains.
Arrive in Da Lat around midday and enjoy lunch before beginning a half-day city tour. Discover some of Da Lat’s historic landmarks, gardens and scenic attractions.
In the late afternoon, take a leisurely walk through the city center and enjoy Da Lat’s cool climate and relaxed atmosphere.
Overnight in Da Lat.
Valley of Love – Da Lat
Today, explore the highlights of Da Lat and its surrounding countryside.
Visit Bao Dai Palace, the former summer residence of Vietnam’s last emperor, followed by the unique Crazy House with its imaginative architecture.
Continue to Truc Lam Zen Monastery, one of the most peaceful religious sites in the area, with views over the surrounding landscape.
Depending on the operating schedule, you may also take an optional heritage train ride to Trai Mat Village.
Return to Da Lat and enjoy the evening at leisure.
Overnight in Da Lat.
Enjoy a relaxed morning in Da Lat. Take the opportunity to explore the local market, enjoy a cup of Vietnamese coffee or simply relax at your hotel before leaving the Central Highlands.
In the afternoon, transfer to the airport for your domestic flight to Ho Chi Minh City.
Upon arrival, your guide and driver will welcome you and transfer you to your hotel in the city center.
The evening is free to discover Ho Chi Minh City’s vibrant atmosphere. You may explore the local restaurants and cafes or take an optional evening walking or motorbike tour.
Overnight in Ho Chi Minh City.
Today, explore the major historical and cultural attractions of Ho Chi Minh City, Vietnam’s largest city.
Visit the War Remnants Museum to learn about the country’s modern history. Continue to the Central Post Office, an impressive example of French colonial architecture, and explore the surrounding central district.
Depending on the itinerary and current access conditions, you may also see the exterior of Notre Dame Cathedral Basilica of Saigon and other historic landmarks in the city center.
Your tour provides an introduction to both the historic heritage and modern energy of Ho Chi Minh City.
Overnight in Ho Chi Minh City.
Saigon Notre Dame Cathedral Basilica
Saigon Notre Dame Cathedral
Today, travel from Ho Chi Minh City to the Mekong Delta, one of southern Vietnam’s most fertile and culturally distinctive regions.
Continue to My Tho and board a local boat to explore the waterways and islands of the Mekong River. Visit local communities and discover traditional products such as coconut candy and tropical fruits.
Depending on the local program, you may also take a smaller sampan through narrow waterways and visit a local workshop or fruit orchard.
Visit Vinh Trang Pagoda, one of the best-known Buddhist sites in the Mekong Delta, before returning to Ho Chi Minh City in the afternoon.
Overnight in Ho Chi Minh City.
Boat trip on the Mekong River
Visit one or two of the islands that produce traditional handcrafts, coconut candy and bee farms. Visit the Vinh Trang Pagoda, the oldest one in the delta on your boat trip on the Mekong River.
Return to Ho Chi Minh City. Check in hotel & stay overnight in Ho Chi Minh City.
Enjoy a free morning in Ho Chi Minh City before your departure flight.
Depending on your flight schedule, you can relax at your hotel or take some final time to explore the city and do some shopping.
At the appropriate time, your private driver will transfer you to the airport for your onward journey.
Tan Son Nhat Airport
Your 21-day Vietnam tour from Hanoi to Ho Chi Minh City comes to an end. We hope you leave Vietnam with wonderful memories of its landscapes, culture, cuisine and people.
Good bye & see you in the next time!
Prices are in USD, per person.
This tour can be customized to fit your own demands. Best price and value guaranteed!
| Hotel / Group | 2 guests | 3~4 guests | 5~6 guests | 7~8 guests | 9~12 guests | Single surcharge |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| 3 Star | 2,269 | 1,954 | 1,735 | 1,612 | 1,541 | 565 |
| 4 Star | 2,918 | 2,600 | 2,378 | 2,250 | 2,174 | 1,090 |
| 5 Star | 4,044 | 3,720 | 3,489 | 3,354 | 3,269 | 2,025 |
Please note that some services such as flights, hotels and other bookings may have cancellation fees once they have been confirmed and paid. Any applicable supplier cancellation fees will be charged to the traveler.
The following are the maximum cancellation fees that may apply:
Please contact us as soon as possible if you need to cancel or change your trip. We will always do our best to minimize any cancellation costs where possible.
Please note: The child rates apply when children share a room and services with a full-paying adult. Additional charges may apply for extra beds, private rooms, special meals or other services requested for children. Child rates may also vary depending on the specific tour, hotel policy and services included.
Are you interested in this tour or would you like to customize your own trip?
Call our local experts: +84 98 939 1076
