Vietnam Kaleidoscope: 14 Days – the Ultimate Cultural & Scenic Journey

Welcome to Vietnam—a land of timeless charm, where lush rice paddies, rugged mountain ranges, ancient pagodas, colorful ethnic cultures, and pristine beaches come together to create an unforgettable experience.

Upon arrival at Noi Bai International Airport in Hanoi, you will be warmly welcomed by our experienced tour guide and driver, who will assist with your transfer to the hotel and check-in.

If your visit falls on the weekend, don’t miss the chance to explore the Hanoi Weekend Night Market near Hoan Kiem Lake. This vibrant evening scene features pedestrian-friendly walking streets, glowing red lanterns, delicious local street food, and handcrafted Vietnamese souvenirs—a perfect first taste of the local culture.

Overnight in Hanoi.

Start your day with a unique window into local life as Hanoi slowly awakens. Stroll around the tranquil Hoan Kiem Lake, where residents gather for Tai Chi and morning exercises amid the peaceful atmosphere. Meander through the quiet streets of the Old Quarter, a rare moment when this bustling area feels serene and timeless.

Fuel up with a hearty bowl of Pho, Vietnam’s beloved national dish, at a popular local eatery.

Continue your cultural journey with a visit to the Museum of Ethnology, where you’ll explore authentic ethnic homes and fascinating exhibits that highlight the traditions of Vietnam’s 54 ethnic groups. Then, step into history at the Temple of Literature, Vietnam’s first university—an elegant, peaceful complex dedicated to Confucian scholars.

In the afternoon, uncover one of Hanoi’s most thrilling hidden gems—Train Street. This narrow lane, lined with homes and cafés, comes to life when the train roars through just inches away. Sip on traditional Vietnamese coffee as you wait for the perfect photo opportunity.

Wrap up your day with a visit to the Ho Chi Minh Complex. Admire the grand Mausoleum (outside), walk past the Presidential Palace, and see the simple stilt house where the revered leader lived. Nearby, marvel at the One Pillar Pagoda, a lotus-inspired symbol of Vietnamese spirituality and resilience.

Overnight in Hanoi.

Get up early and leave the city behind to journey to the breathtaking Ha Long Bay, a UNESCO World Heritage Site and one of Vietnam’s most iconic natural wonders. Along the scenic highway, watch the countryside unfold with lush rice fields and quiet villages.

Upon arrival, step aboard a luxury cruise and enjoy a welcome drink and a delicious seafood lunch as your vessel sets sail into the emerald waters. Glide past towering limestone karsts, hidden coves, and floating fishing villages, soaking in the serenity of this surreal seascape.

During your cruise, explore the Sung Sot (Surprise) Cave, famous for its massive chambers filled with dramatic stalactites and stalagmites, and unwind on the white sands of Ti Top Island, where you can swim or hike to the top for panoramic bay views.

As the sun begins to set, the cruise anchors in a peaceful area. Relax on deck with a glass of wine, take in the magical surroundings, and enjoy a freshly prepared dinner under the stars.

Overnight on board in the heart of Ha Long Bay.

Wake up to the magical stillness of Ha Long Bay at sunrise, where mist drifts across the emerald waters and limestone cliffs glow in the morning light. After a leisurely breakfast, hop on a sampan boat to explore a hidden lagoon, a peaceful, secluded corner surrounded by awakening cliffs and echoing bird calls.

Continue cruising deeper into Bai Tu Long Bay, passing iconic formations such as Turtle Islet, Duck Islet, and Human Head Island. Cruise by the dramatic filming location of the classic movie Indochine, capturing final photos of this dreamlike seascape.

Around midday, return to the harbor and journey back to Hanoi. If time allows, enjoy a short cultural stop at Phu Lang Pottery Village, known for its rustic charm and centuries-old ceramic traditions.

Later, board a short domestic flight to Hue, the ancient capital rich with imperial history. Upon arrival, you’ll be greeted and transferred to your hotel to settle in and unwind.

Overnight in Hue.

Start your day with an authentic cyclo ride through Hue’s most beautiful sites. This peaceful, ancient city comes alive as you pass local streets, bustling Dong Ba Market, and the iconic Trang Tien Bridge crossing the Perfume River. Feel like a true local as you soak in the vibrant street life.

Visit the historic Imperial Citadel, the former royal seat of the Nguyen Dynasty (1802-1945), and marvel at its exquisite Vietnamese royal architecture and culture.

In the afternoon, explore two royal tombs rich in history and artistry. The majestic King Minh Mang Tomb is renowned for its perfect harmony between manmade structures and natural surroundings along the Perfume River. Then, discover the King Khai Dinh Tomb, known for its intricate blend of oriental and occidental styles—Roman, Gothic, ancient, and modern—built over 11 years at great cost, reflecting a unique imperial legacy.

Stop at Thien Mu Pagoda, a symbol of Hue with its traditional architecture and poignant history, including the 1963 self-immolation of monk Thich Quang Duc in protest.

Conclude your day with a scenic dragon boat cruise on the Perfume River, drifting back to the city center under a peaceful sky.

Overnight in Hue

After breakfast, embark on a scenic drive to Hoi An, the jewel of Vietnam tours and a beautifully preserved 15th-19th century trading port showcasing a unique blend of indigenous and foreign influences.

Travel through the charming fishing village of Lang Co, then ascend the dramatic Pass of Ocean Clouds, offering breathtaking coastal views.

Stop in Danang to explore the Cham Museum, home to the world’s finest collection of Cham sculptures, and visit the mystical Marble Mountain, a revered pilgrimage site with caves, tunnels, and temples carved into its peaks.

Arrive in Hoi An and enjoy a leisurely walking tour of the ancient town center, soaking in the timeless atmosphere, lantern-lit streets, and charming architecture.

Overnight in Hoi An.

Experience the heart of rural Vietnam with a close-up immersion into local farming and fishing communities. Begin your day with a leisurely cycling tour along peaceful country roads, guided by an expert who will introduce you to the authentic rhythms of village life.

Discover a beautiful organic vegetable village where you can plant, water, and hoe the soil alongside friendly farmers. Ride a water buffalo through lush rice paddies, watch ducks glide across the fields, and capture countless breathtaking photo opportunities of everyday rural life.

Next, board a boat to cruise down serene waterways framed by coconut palms, tracing the river to where it meets the Cua Dai Sea. Learn traditional fishing techniques using round and cast nets, and try paddling the iconic Vietnamese bamboo basket boats.

Along the way, hear stories of the area’s wartime history and the resilience of soldiers who endured extreme conditions.

Enjoy a fresh lunch on board with cold beer or soft drinks before returning by car to your hotel.

Overnight in Hoi An.

Enjoy a free day to relax and explore the charming ancient town of Hoi An at your own pace. Wander through its lantern-lit streets, quaint shops, and riverside cafés—immerse yourself in its timeless atmosphere.

In the evening, receive your tickets from the tour guide for the spectacular Hoi An Memories Show — a grand outdoor performance with a seating capacity of 3,300. This breathtaking show celebrates Vietnamese traditions, featuring the elegant Ao Dai and the vibrant history of Hoi An as a prosperous trading port for over 400 years.

The theatre is just a short distance from your hotel, so you can easily get there on your own and enjoy an unforgettable cultural experience.

Overnight in Hoi An.

Enjoy free time in the morning before being transferred to Danang Airport for your flight to Ho Chi Minh City — a vibrant metropolis famous for its modern skyscrapers, ornate pagodas, and bustling street food stalls.

Upon arrival, you’ll be picked up and taken to your hotel to check in and freshen up.

Optional Vespa Tour: Hop on a classic Vespa and experience the city like a local. Accompanied by an expert driver, you’ll explore hidden city gems, including the colorful Chinatown district, a fragrant flower market, a secret Buddhist pagoda, and iconic landmarks like Saigon Opera House and the Post Office designed by Gustave Eiffel. This thrilling ride offers a unique perspective on Ho Chi Minh City beyond the usual tourist paths.

Overnight in Ho Chi Minh City.

Begin your day with a scenic drive to the Cu Chi Tunnels, where you’ll watch an introductory video before exploring the intricate underground maze used during the Vietnam War. Discover historic wartime relics including mantraps, bomb craters, and the remains of an American tank.

Return to Ho Chi Minh City for an afternoon city tour featuring iconic landmarks: the Notre Dame Cathedral, the Old Post Office—both masterpieces of French colonial architecture—and the historic Reunification Palace, where the Vietnam War ended in 1975.

Visit the War Remnants Museum, offering a powerful glimpse into the war’s impact, with outdoor displays of tanks, jets, and artillery. End your tour at the bustling Ben Thanh Market, perfect for shopping local crafts, souvenirs, and traditional silk ao dais.

You’ll be transferred back to your hotel in the evening, with the option to continue exploring the lively market on your own.

Overnight in Ho Chi Minh City.

Depart Ho Chi Minh City and drive to Ben Tre, the gateway to the Mekong Delta. Cruise along the peaceful Ham Luong River, visiting local workshops including brick making, coconut processing, and mat weaving.

Enjoy a serene walk through a traditional Delta village and take a bicycle ride through lush coconut plantations, immersing yourself in authentic rural life.

Continue to Can Tho, the vibrant heart of the Mekong Delta, where you’ll check in and relax at your hotel.

Overnight in Can Tho.

Start your day with a scenic boat cruise to Cai Rang Floating Market, the most vibrant and colorful market in the Mekong Delta. Witness the lively trade of fruits, vegetables, and local goods from traditional rowing boats—an unforgettable glimpse into daily life on the water.

Explore a nearby village to visit a rice husking mill and a rice noodle-making workshop, offering authentic insight into the hardworking Mekong Delta communities.

Around midday, take a short flight to the tropical paradise of Phu Quoc Island. Check in to your beachfront resort and unwind by the sea.

Overnight in Phu Quoc.

Discover the natural beauty of Phu Quoc Island, a tropical paradise known for its pristine beaches, lush forests, and shimmering turquoise waters. Relax on soft, secluded sands or simply soak up the island’s breathtaking sunsets framed by swaying palm trees—an ideal way to unwind after your Vietnam adventure.

As evening falls, be picked up from your hotel and transferred to Dinh Cau Pier for a memorable sunset boat cruise. Enjoy a delicious dinner on board featuring local squid soup as you watch the sky turn fiery hues. Then, try your hand at traditional squid fishing, a fun and authentic night-time activity unique to the island.

Overnight in Phu Quoc.

Enjoy your free time at leisure to wrap up your memorable Vietnam holiday. When it’s time, your private Oriental Destination guide will escort you to the airport with warm thanks for choosing to travel with us.

We hope you’ve loved your Vietnam journey and look forward to welcoming you back for your next adventure.

Goodbye and see you again soon!