Vietnam: From Ho Chi Minh to Sapa
14 Days | 13 Nights | Ho Chi Minh – Hue – Hoi An – Hanoi – Ha Long Bay – Sapa
Tour Overview
Immerse yourself in the heart and soul of Vietnam on this in-depth journey from the energetic streets of Ho Chi Minh City to the misty rice terraces of Sapa. Along the way, uncover imperial history in Hue, wander lantern-lit streets in Hoi An, explore Hanoi’s old quarters, and cruise through the dramatic limestone scenery of Ha Long Bay.
Blending culture, history, landscapes and local life, this itinerary is ideal for travellers wanting a comprehensive Vietnam experience with guided highlights, scenic journeys and time to explore independently.
Tour Highlights
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Guided city tour of Ho Chi Minh City
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Imperial heritage sites in Hue
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Walking tour of UNESCO-listed Hoi An
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Scenic drive over the Hai Van Pass
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Overnight cruise in Ha Long Bay
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Traditional Tai Chi session at sunrise on the bay
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Hill tribe village visits in Sapa
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Full-day trekking through Muong Hoa Valley
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Terraced rice fields, ethnic villages and mountain scenery
Day-by-Day Itinerary
Day 1 – UK / Ireland → Ho Chi Minh City
Depart from the UK or Ireland on an overnight flight to Vietnam.
Overnight: Night on board
Day 2 – Arrive Ho Chi Minh City
Arrive in Ho Chi Minh City and meet your driver. Transfer to your hotel and enjoy the remainder of the day at leisure after your journey.
Overnight: Ho Chi Minh City
Day 3 – Ho Chi Minh City Tour
After breakfast, enjoy a guided half-day city tour visiting key landmarks such as the Reunification Palace, Notre Dame Cathedral and the Central Post Office, followed by time to browse Ben Thanh Market.
The afternoon is free to explore independently or join optional excursions.
Overnight: Ho Chi Minh City
Day 4 – Ho Chi Minh City at Leisure
Day at leisure to explore the city at your own pace. Optional excursions include a full-day Mekong Delta experience, offering insight into rural river life.
Overnight: Ho Chi Minh City
Day 5 – Ho Chi Minh City → Hue
Transfer to the airport for your flight to Hue, Vietnam’s former imperial capital. The rest of the day is free to relax or explore independently.
Overnight: Hue
Day 6 – Hue → Hoi An
Travel by road from Hue to Hoi An via the spectacular Hai Van Pass, enjoying panoramic coastal views en route.
In the afternoon, enjoy a guided walking tour of Hoi An’s ancient town, including the Japanese Covered Bridge, historic merchant houses and atmospheric streets.
Overnight: Hoi An
Day 7 – Hoi An at Leisure
Free day to enjoy Hoi An at your own pace. Optional excursion available to Ba Na Hills and the famous Golden Bridge.
Overnight: Hoi An
Day 8 – Hoi An → Hanoi
Transfer to Da Nang Airport for your flight to Hanoi. On arrival, transfer to your hotel and enjoy the rest of the day at leisure.
Overnight: Hanoi
Day 9 – Hanoi → Ha Long Bay
Depart Hanoi by road to Ha Long Bay. Board your traditional junk boat and enjoy lunch on board as you cruise through emerald waters dotted with dramatic limestone karsts.
Visit fishing villages and relax on deck before enjoying dinner onboard.
Overnight: Ha Long Bay Cruise
Day 10 – Ha Long Bay → Hanoi
Begin the day with sunrise views and a gentle Tai Chi session on deck. After breakfast, continue cruising before returning to the harbour and transferring back to Hanoi.
Overnight: Hanoi
Day 11 – Hanoi → Sapa
Travel by road from Hanoi to Sapa, a mountain town near the Chinese border. In the afternoon, visit a Blue H’mong ethnic minority village and enjoy a guided walk through terraced landscapes.
Overnight: Sapa
Day 12 – Sapa & Muong Hoa Valley
Enjoy a full-day guided trek through the Muong Hoa Valley, visiting Black H’mong and Zay villages, admiring rice terraces and learning about local traditions.
Overnight: Sapa
Day 13 – Sapa → Hanoi
Morning at leisure in Sapa. Optional visit available to Mount Fansipan by cable car.
In the afternoon, return by road to Hanoi.
Overnight: Hanoi
Day 14 – Hanoi → UK / Ireland
Transfer to the airport for your return flight to the UK or Ireland.
Depending on flight schedules, arrival may be the same day or following day.
What’s Included
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Return international flights from selected UK / Ireland airports
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Internal flights: Ho Chi Minh City → Hue, Da Nang → Hanoi
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All airport and intercity transfers in air-conditioned vehicles
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12 nights accommodation in Luxury category hotels
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1 night aboard a Ha Long Bay cruise
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11 breakfasts, 1 brunch, 1 lunch and 1 dinner
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Guided half-day city tour in Ho Chi Minh City
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Guided walking tour of Hoi An
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Overnight Ha Long Bay cruise with meals
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Hill tribe village visit in Sapa
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Full-day trekking experience in Muong Hoa Valley
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All sightseeing, visits and entrance fees as per itinerary
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English-speaking guides during included excursions
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All air taxes and fuel surcharges
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ATOL protection
What’s Not Included
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Vietnam visa (required for Irish passport holders)
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Drinks and meals not stated
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Optional excursions and activities
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Tips and personal expenses
Accommodation
Stay in carefully selected Luxury category hotels, ideally located in:
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Ho Chi Minh City
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Hue
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Hoi An
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Hanoi
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Sapa
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Ha Long Bay (overnight cruise)
(All accommodation is confirmed closer to departure and will be of the same or higher standard.)
Pricing
From £4,498 per couple
(based on two adults sharing)
Prices are subject to availability and flight pricing at time of booking