ARRIVAL + WOW OF HANOI VIBE & TRAFFIC + FOOD TOUR, FEEL LIKE MEETING AN OLD FRIENDGIFT: CYCLO 30 MINUTES
✅ Private airport pickup and hotel transfer.
🏙️ Exploration of Hanoi’s Old Quarter and its cinematic vibe.
🍜 Authentic Vietnamese food tour with local delicacies like Bún Chả, Bánh Mỳ, Egg Coffee, and Nộm Bò Khô.
🎭 Local culture and culinary experience.
GET OUT OF THE PALACE, TRAVEL TO COUNTRYSIDE WITH MOUNTAIN, CAVE, SAMPAN BOAT RIVER NINH BINH.
✅ Flexible pickup times and scenic drive to Ninh Binh.
⛰️ Mua Cave hike and visit to Hoa Lu.
🚣♂️ Boat ride in Tam Coc or Trang An.
🍖 Sample goat meat and enjoy a 30-minute massage.
PATHWAY TO PARADISE: A JOURNEY THROUGH THE HEAVEN OF RICE PADDY, MOUNTAINS, ETHNIC BLACK HMONG PEOPLE
✅ Explore ethnic villages of Lao Chai and Ta Van.
🥾 Trek through rice terraces and capture local life.
🍽️ Enjoy a mountain-view lunch.
🌅 Stroll Sapa Lake and try local snacks.
🦶 Relax with a foot soak.
WHISPERS OF THE WILD: Ô QUY HỒ PASS, SILVER FALLS, AND THE LOVE CASCADE
✅ Choose between a cable car ride to Fansipan and a visit to Cat Cat Village, or
🏔️ Explore O Quy Ho Pass, Silver Waterfall, and Love Waterfall.
VOYAGE INTO BAI TU LONG LIMESTONE MYSTERIES 2D1N. AS THERE IS ONLY FEW BOATS GOING BAITU LONG - THE LESS TOURISTY AREA, SIGN UP FIRST TO GET THE SPOT
🚗 Drive to Ha Long Bay and enjoy a welcome lunch.
🛶 Visit a cave or go kayaking at Trà Báu village.
🍹 Enjoy cocktails (self-expense), dinner, and a relaxing massage (self-pay) or try mackerel fishing.
EXPERIENCE THE FINAL GLIMPSE OF BAI TU LONG MAJESTY
🧘 Enjoy a Tai Chi session and a boat ride to explore Sung and Tối caves.
✈️🚆 Choose between a flight or a special soft sleeper train to Hue.
HUE CITY HERITAGE DISCOVERY TOUR
🏛️ Explore Hue’s history with its delicious food and the Nguyen Dynasty’s legacy.
🕌 Visit the Imperial City, Thiên Mụ Pagoda, and the tombs of the Nguyen emperors.
🛍️ End at Dong Ba Market for a cultural experience.
HAI VAN PASS AND DA NANG MOUNTAIN JOURNEY
🚂 Scenic Heritage Train ride with Ca Tru Huế music and views of Hai Van Pass, OR 🚗 choose a private car option for a closer look at the pass.
⛰️ Explore Marble Mountain, Monkey Island, and Am Phu Cave in Da Nang.
BA NA HILLS ADVENTURE: A DAY OF WONDERS
🏮 Create your own lantern and explore a coconut forest.
🏛️ Visit Hoi An's iconic landmarks and markets.
🍜 Enjoy local dishes, cultural performances, and lantern-lit streets.
HOI AN CULTURAL AND CULINARY EXPERIENCE
🌴 Explore a coconut forest with a basket boat experience.
🏛️ Visit Hoi An's iconic landmarks and markets.
🍜 Enjoy local dishes, cultural performances, and lantern-lit streets.
FLY TO HO CHI MINH IN THE MORNING - AIRPORT TRANSFER 2 WAYS, VISIT CU CHI TUNNELSECRETS
✈️ Flight to Ho Chi Minh City.
🎖️ Visit Cu Chi Tunnels and learn about wartime tactics.
🏚️ Experience the history of the tunnels, hidden from the world for years.
🛋️ Return to the city for relaxation.
A HIDDEN MEKONG ADVENTURE 2 DAYS 1 NIGHT
🚤 Explore the authentic Mekong Delta.
🍊 Visit Cai Be and Vinh Long for long boat rides and lush fruit gardens.
🏡 Experience rural life and stay in a traditional homestay in Vinh Long.
THE FLOATING HEART OF MEKONG: CÁI RĂNG MARKET EXPEDITION, BACK TO HO CHI MINH
⛵ Visit the Cái Răng Floating Market, the last of its kind in the Mekong Delta, with Truly Voyage’s extended journey.
JOURNEY'S END. YOUR AIRPORT FAREWELL!
DAILY ITINERARY INTRODUCTION
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DAY 1
Your private driver will pick you up at the airport and take you to your hotel or our office to drop off your luggage (check-in is at 14:00). The drive takes about 45 minutes. Once settled in, relax or explore the vibrant Old Quarter, where you can discover the world’s smallest alley and enjoy the cinematic vibe of the city.
Enjoy authentic Vietnamese flavors during a 3-hour evening food tour (18:00-21:00 or customized for private tours). Highlights include Bún Chả (BBQ pork with lemongrass), Bánh Mỳ (crispy bread filled with meat, veggies, and more), Egg Coffee, and Nộm Bò Khô (beef salad). Experience the train passing by the most beautiful and lively street of the World: Train town. Finish the trip by a wonderfull journey 30 minutes by Cyclo around the Old quarter before heading back to hotel -
DAY 2
For private tours, your driver can pick you up at any time, but we recommend 08:30 AM. Group tours pick up between 07:00-07:30 AM. The drive takes around 2 hours with a 20-minute break. Upon arrival in Ninh Binh, your guide will check the weather.
During hot months, the guide will take you to Mua Cave first for a hike. The 500-step climb offers amazing views. If you prefer a shorter walk, stop after 200 steps. Then, visit Hoa Lu, the ancient capital of Vietnam, before heading for a boat ride in Tam Coc (May-June) or Trang An (rest of the year). Tam Coc offers a 1.5-hour boat ride through lush rice fields, while Trang An offers a more tranquil, 2-hour experience. Local dishes like goat meat are also available.
Private tours end at 15:30 PM, returning to Hanoi by 18:00 PM. Group tours return by 19:00 PM. Enjoy a 30-minute massage at Amora Spa before relaxing until 21:00 PM, then transfer to your train or bus station for onward travel to Sapa. -
DAY 3
Upon arrival in Lao Cai at 6 AM, a private driver will take you to Sapa town in about an hour. After freshening up at your hotel and leaving your luggage, enjoy breakfast with your guide before starting your day.
The day begins with a scenic drive to the ethnic villages of Lao Chai and Ta Van, home to the Black Hmong people. You’ll trek through the villages, capturing photos of the lush rice terraces and the locals working. If you feel tired, you can rest and continue to the next village.
Lunch will be served in a local restaurant with stunning mountain views. Afterward, visit Ta Van Village, a tranquil spot surrounded by nature. You’ll return to the hotel by 4 PM to check in and rest.
In the evening, take a stroll around Sapa Lake, trying local snacks like grilled corn, sweet potatoes, and meats. Finish the day with a soothing herbal foot soak at a local spa. Be sure to bring warm clothes as Sapa’s weather can be cool even in the sun. -
DAY 4
On this day, you can choose one of two options:
Option 1: Explore Sapa from above: Take a walk to visit Cat Cat Village or experience the cable car ride up to the top of Fansipan ($45 for the cable car, $14 for the Peak Đỗ Quyên train).
Option 2: Discover the pristine beauty of nature: Visit the breathtaking O Quy Ho Pass, Silver Waterfall, and Love Waterfall. The Silver Waterfall offers a short climb to enjoy a stunning view of the valley below. If you prefer a more relaxed experience, the Love Waterfall, with its smooth path through the Hoang Lien National Forest, will leave you feeling refreshed and peaceful.
The tour lasts from 08:30 to 12:30, followed by lunch. At 13:30, we’ll take you to the cabin bus station for your 14:00 departure back to Hanoi, arriving around 20:00-20:30. You'll have time for dinner and rest, preparing for your next journey. -
DAY 5
Truly Voyage's vehicle will pick you up at your hotel around 08:30 for private tours, or between 08:00-08:30 for group tours. The journey to Ha Long takes about 2.5 hours, with a 20-minute break. Upon arrival at Ha Long port, check in and wait for the boat transfer. You'll be greeted by the professional crew and taken to the restaurant to check in and enjoy lunch.
After lunch, relax until the afternoon activities begin. You can choose between a cave visit or heading to Trà Báu floating village for kayaking and swimming. Explore the clear waters and towering limestone caves. Once refreshed, return to the boat for a cozy dinner, with options like seafood, a buffet, or a cooking class for spring rolls.
In the evening, enjoy relaxation time, sip cocktails on deck, and admire the sea, which sparkles like a starry sky. For a bit of adventure, try mackerel fishing. Or unwind with a 30-45 minute massage, leaving you rejuvenated and ready for a peaceful night under the stars. -
DAY 6
The next morning, despite the early hour, you’ll find me up at 6:45 AM for a 5-minute Tai Chi session—something I never imagined doing on the vast sea. Thanks to the 2-day cruise for this unique experience! Would you want to try waking up early like me? :)
After breakfast, continue the adventure with a boat ride to explore the bay, passing Sung and Tối caves. The breathtaking natural beauty feels like a treasure hunt on a deserted island.
By 9:30 AM, return to the main ship for check-out and brunch. At 10:30 AM, the ship heads back to the harbor, arriving at 11:00 AM. The Truly Voyage car will take you back to Hanoi.
From there, you can either go to Hanoi airport or opt for a special experience—a soft sleeper train to Hue. While the package includes a flight to Hue, feel free to contact me to customize your itinerary with the train option. -
DAY 7
Hue, the "city of nostalgia," is famous for its delicious food, offering 7-10 dishes for around $10, and its warm, honest people. Deeply connected to the Nguyen Dynasty, Hue’s pride lies in its 13 generations of emperors. As you explore the Imperial City with your guide, you’ll feel a range of emotions—from awe to tears—while learning about the rich history. Even as a local, I was moved by the stories shared at this majestic imperial palace.
For private tours, the guide will pick you up at 8:30 AM, while group tours start at 8:00 AM. After visiting the Imperial City, you’ll head to the Thiên Mụ Pagoda and take a Royal Dragon Boat ride, once used by the Hue royal family. Next, explore the tombs of the Nguyen emperors, where death is seen as a transition, not an end.
The tour concludes at 5:00 PM with a visit to either a traditional incense village or the lively Dong Ba Market, enriching your understanding of Vietnamese culture. -
DAY 8
If you haven't experienced the train ride from Hanoi to Hue, you can still enjoy a scenic journey on the Heritage Train from Hue to Da Nang (08:00-11:30). This ride offers a unique experience with traditional Ca Tru Huế music, views of local life, and glimpses of the stunning Hai Van Pass.
For a closer look at Hai Van Pass, a private car can be arranged for a more leisurely experience, allowing you to travel at your own pace. The pass, known for its dramatic curves, offers breathtaking views of the coast, white sand beaches, and crystal-clear waters.
After arriving in Da Nang, check into your hotel, enjoy lunch, and relax. At 2:00 PM, embark on a guided tour to explore Marble Mountain, Monkey Island, and Am Phu Cave. Marble Mountain, with its serene Buddha statues and stunning views, will fill you with peace and awe. The day ends with a return to the hotel around 5:30 PM, leaving you with unforgettable memories of the stunning nature and spirituality of the area. -
DAY 9
For private tours, the car will pick you up at 08:30, while group tours are between 08:00-08:30. Bring a stylish jacket as you explore Da Nang, where the creativity of the Vietnamese people will amaze you. Riding the world’s strongest cable car for the first time will make you wonder how it was built. As you ascend, towering mountains and dense forests unfold below you. At the top of Ba Na, you'll encounter the largest hand statue in Vietnam, an incredible feat perched above the clouds.
If you're not interested in the Fantasy Park games, enjoy the lively atmosphere and hospitality, with energetic dances, unique costumes, and sights like the Linh Ung Buddha Statue, Linh Ung Pagoda, and the Flower Garden, which resembles Da Lat.
After a buffet lunch with over 100 dishes, you’ll have free time before descending on the cable car, return to Da Nang hotel, our private car transfer you to Hoi An hotel -
DAY 10
Today, you will experience the peaceful rural life of Quang Nam, in contrast to the excitement of Ba Na.
12:00 We start our journey picking you up from your hotel in Hoi An. We glide through the serene coconut forests of Cam Thanh Village on a bamboo basket boat, trying traditional fishing methods, joining a fun basket-boat performance, and catching crabs. You’ll enjoy a cooking show and a delicious meal of seven local dishes before heading back to your hotel at 12:30 PM for a short rest.
At 2:30 PM, the adventure continues at the lively Hoi An Market. We explore landmarks like the Phuc Kien Assembly Hall, historic merchant houses, and the Japanese Bridge. Immerse yourself in the lantern-lit streets, enjoy art performances, and release flower lanterns during a tranquil boat ride. At 6:30 PM, we return you to your hotel, ending a memorable day in Hoi An. -
DAY 11
The driver from Truly Voyage will take you to the airport, and you will board a flight that lasts a little over an hour to Ho Chi Minh City, one of the most modern cities in Vietnam. The driver will be waiting for you at the airport and will take you to your hotel. If the room is available, you can check in immediately, or if not, you can enjoy lunch before embarking on a special journey.
You will then travel back in time to Vietnam’s history, exploring the Cu Chi Tunnels, where you will learn how soldiers used camouflage and dug a 250 km tunnel system entirely by hand between 1946 and 1968, without the world knowing. You will hear stories about the Vietnamese soldiers’ ingenious tactics, making the tunnels an experience far more vivid than any museum could offer.
You will return to the city around 18:00 to relax and rest. -
DAY 12
Save the last day for the vibrant city of Saigon. Today, your journey will begin early in the morning at 08:30 (private tour) or between 07:45-08:10 AM (group tour). Your journey will then take you to the peaceful rural heart of southern Vietnam – the Mekong Delta.
What sets this experience apart is that Truly will not take you to the commercialized and tourist-heavy areas like My Tho or Ben Tre. Instead, you will explore more authentic, off-the-beaten-path destinations such as Cai Be and Vinh Long.
These areas are renowned for their lush fruit gardens (miệt vườn) and longer boat rides (1.5 hours) through the waterways (instead of just 15 minutes in My Tho or Ben Tre). You will also have the chance to experience rural life and enjoy the serene beauty of the countryside.
Additionally, you will spend the night in a homestay with a traditional stilt house in Vinh Long, offering a unique and immersive experience that reflects the quiet charm of the Mekong Delta’s waterway communities.
This day will end at about 17:00 PM -
DAY 13
While other providers may only take you around Vĩnh Long and then head back to HCM, Truly goes the extra mile by covering the additional cost for the driver to take you all the way to Cái Răng (an extra 38 km one-way). Here, you will have the chance to explore the Cái Răng Floating Market, the last remaining floating market in the Mekong Delta, Vietnam.
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DAY 14
Journey's End. Your airport Farewell!
