The 14 Day North to South Vietnam Like a Local Private Tour is a hands on and culturally rich itinerary created for travellers seeking genuine local connection. Begin in Hanoi where you will explore hidden alleyways by motorbike and dive into the city’s unique culinary culture on a guided food walk. From there, set sail on a luxury overnight cruise through the limestone karsts of Halong Bay.
Fly south to Hue for a relaxing dragon boat journey along the Perfume River and unwind in Thuy Bieu Eco Village with a home style lunch and herbal foot soak. Then travel along the scenic Hai Van Pass to Hoi An, where you will meet local farmers in Cam Thanh, try water buffalo riding and enjoy a sunset street food tour. Fly to the Mekong Delta for a peaceful island stay on Tan Phong Island where you will cook and garden with your hosts before ending the journey in Ho Chi Minh City. Here, explore secret temples and local markets by motorbike and discover the vibrant character of southern Vietnam.
This journey connects the country’s cities, coastlines and countryside through engaging experiences, delicious food and warm hospitality. It is ideal for couples and active travellers looking for something real.
Travellers arrive in Vietnam’s capital, a city rich with history and charm. A local guide and private driver will be waiting at Noi Bai Airport to provide a comfortable transfer to the hotel. Check in is from 2.00 pm but early check in can be arranged at an additional cost. The rest of the day is free to relax or explore at leisure. Optional experiences include a traditional water puppet show or a walking tour around Hoan Kiem Lake and the Old Quarter, where tree lined boulevards and buzzing street life offer a warm introduction to northern Vietnam.
Meals: Not included
Accommodation: Apricot Hotel
This morning, guests embark on a thrilling half day motorbike tour with experienced drivers. The route includes iconic landmarks such as the Hanoi Opera House, Hoan Kiem Lake and the Long Bien Bridge. Travellers are taken through local markets, French colonial quarters and hidden alleys, including visits to the B52 crash site, Tran Quoc Pagoda and Huu Tiep Lake. Along the way, enjoy street side snacks and gain insights into Hanoi’s complex history. The tour concludes with lunch at a local eatery, and the afternoon is free for further exploration or rest.
Meals: Breakfast, Lunch
Accommodation: Apricot Hotel
After breakfast, travellers depart by road to Halong Bay. On arrival, board a traditional junk boat and cruise into the emerald waters of Lan Ha Bay. A freshly prepared lunch is served as the boat navigates through dramatic limestone karsts. Afternoon activities may include kayaking, swimming or exploring a limestone cave depending on the cruise itinerary. Sunset is best enjoyed with a drink on the deck followed by a Vietnamese cooking demonstration and dinner onboard. Evening options include squid fishing or simply relaxing under the stars.
Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
Accommodation: Mon Chéri Cruise
The day begins with morning tai chi on deck and a light breakfast. A short excursion, such as a rowing boat ride or cave visit, may be included. Guests enjoy brunch as the cruise returns to port. From there, transfer back to Hanoi and then on to the airport for a domestic flight to Hue. Upon arrival, a private transfer brings travellers to their hotel for a relaxed evening.
Meals: Breakfast, Brunch
Accommodation: TTC Imperial Hotel Hue
Begin the day with a dragon boat cruise along the Perfume River, stopping at Thien Mu Pagoda, a serene seven storey structure surrounded by gardens. Then continue to Thuy Bieu Eco Village to explore pomelo orchards and traditional garden houses. Participate in local crafts such as incense and paper making, followed by a hands on cooking class. After a lunch of Hue style dishes, guests enjoy a herbal foot soak and massage by trained blind therapists. The day concludes with a return transfer to the hotel.
Meals: Breakfast, Lunch
Accommodation: TTC Imperial Hotel Hue
Today is free for guests to explore at their own pace. Suggested activities include visiting the Imperial City, cycling along the Perfume River or taking an optional excursion to the former demilitarised zone. Guests may also wish to relax at the hotel or enjoy some of Hue’s renowned cuisine. No scheduled activities are included today.
Meals: Breakfast
Accommodation: TTC Imperial Hotel Hue
After breakfast, travellers depart by private vehicle for the drive to Hoi An. The journey winds over the Hai Van Pass, offering stunning views where forested hills meet the sea. Stops for photos are included along the way. On arrival in Hoi An, check in to the hotel and enjoy a relaxed evening soaking up the town’s atmospheric charm.
Meals: Breakfast
Accommodation: Bel Marina Hoi An Resort
This morning, guests set out by bicycle for Cam Thanh Village where they meet local farmers and join in activities such as raking soil, watering plants, ploughing and harvesting. There is an opportunity to ride a water buffalo for a memorable photo. At a nearby fishing village, learn to cast traditional nets and navigate a round bamboo basket boat through coconut groves. Enjoy a home style lunch in a local house before cycling back to the hotel.
Meals: Breakfast, Lunch
Accommodation: Bel Marina Hoi An Resort
The morning and early afternoon are free for leisure. Guests may choose to visit An Bang Beach, browse the tailor shops or explore the Japanese Bridge and riverside cafés. In the late afternoon, a street food tour begins with stops at celebrated vendors including Banh Mi Phuong. Taste dishes such as Cao Lau noodles, Banh Beo, Banh Khot and even balut for the adventurous. The experience ends with a traditional egg coffee at a hidden café.
Meals: Breakfast, Dinner
Accommodation: Bel Marina Hoi An Resort
After breakfast, a private transfer takes guests to Da Nang Airport for a flight to Ho Chi Minh City. Upon arrival, a local guide greets the group and escorts them to the hotel. The rest of the day is at leisure. Optional activities include a visit to the War Remnants Museum or a rooftop cocktail at one of the city’s stylish bars.
Meals: Breakfast
Accommodation: The Myst Dong Khoi
Today includes a guided motorbike tour through the buzzing streets of Ho Chi Minh City. Travellers ride pillion behind expert drivers as they explore key landmarks such as the Central Post Office, Opera House and Nguyen Hue Walking Street. The route ventures into lesser known areas including the Thich Quang Duc memorial, the flower market, Thien Hau Pagoda and a Cambodian market. The tour ends in a historic apartment complex famed for its food stalls before returning to the hotel.
Meals: Breakfast
Accommodation: The Myst Dong Khoi
Leave the city behind and head to Cai Be in the Mekong Delta. Stop at a coconut candy village and a bee farm before boarding a boat to Tan Phong Island. Enjoy seasonal fruits and a traditional Vietnamese music performance before gliding along the canals by rowing boat. At the homestay, participate in ditch fishing or garden work, then help prepare and share a home cooked meal with the host family.
Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
Accommodation: Mekong Ecolodge Homestay
Begin the day with a peaceful cycling tour of the island, visiting local artisans who make rice paper and banana fibre hammocks. A cooking class follows where guests prepare jackfruit leaf cake, a regional speciality. After lunch, say farewell to the island and return to Ho Chi Minh City by boat and car. The evening is free to relax or explore.
Meals: Breakfast, Lunch
Accommodation: The Myst Dong Khoi
Enjoy a final breakfast at the hotel before checking out by 12.00 midday. A private transfer to Tan Son Nhat Airport is arranged for the departure flight. Late check out can be arranged on request, subject to availability and additional cost.
Meals: Breakfast
Apricot Hotel is a sophisticated five star retreat perfectly positioned on the edge of Hanoi’s Hoan Kiem Lake, offering a seamless blend of cultural elegance and modern luxury. Just steps from the Old Quarter and the city’s most treasured landmarks, the hotel provides an ideal base for exploring Hanoi’s vibrant streetscapes, galleries, and historic charm.
The hotel’s interiors are artistically designed, celebrating Vietnamese heritage with curated local artwork, refined furnishings, and a blend of classical French architecture and contemporary style. Each room and suite is beautifully appointed with premium bedding, marble bathrooms, and thoughtful amenities, many offering sweeping views of the lake or the bustling city below.
Guests can unwind with a cocktail by the rooftop infinity pool, take in panoramic views of the lake from the rooftop bar, or enjoy a traditional Vietnamese massage at the spa. Dining is a refined experience, with a choice of elegant venues serving authentic Vietnamese cuisine and international favourites in stylish, welcoming settings.
With warm hospitality, distinctive design, and a premier location overlooking Hanoi’s cultural heart, Apricot Hotel is the perfect place to experience the city’s rich history, artistic spirit, and timeless beauty in quiet, indulgent comfort.
Mon Chéri Cruise is an elegant five star escape that sails through the tranquil waters of Lan Ha Bay, offering a luxurious way to experience one of Vietnam’s most breathtaking natural wonders. Departing from Hai Phong, the cruise provides a more peaceful and exclusive route compared to the busier Halong Bay, with access to hidden lagoons, unspoiled beaches, and dramatic limestone islands.
The cruise’s interiors are thoughtfully designed, blending contemporary European sophistication with subtle Vietnamese details. Each spacious cabin is beautifully appointed with premium bedding, marble bathrooms, and floor-to-ceiling windows that open to private balconies, allowing guests to take in uninterrupted views of the bay in absolute comfort.
Guests can relax with a drink on the expansive sundeck, unwind at the spa with a traditional massage, or take part in curated experiences such as kayaking, swimming, and exploring floating villages. Dining is a highlight, with a refined selection of Vietnamese and international cuisine served in an elegant dining room overlooking the water.
With warm service, stylish surroundings, and a serene cruising route, Mon Chéri Cruise offers the perfect combination of luxury and discovery for travellers looking to experience the beauty of Lan Ha Bay in comfort and style.
TTC Imperial Hotel Hue is a welcoming five star retreat located in the heart of Hue, just a short walk from the Perfume River and a stone’s throw from the city’s most iconic cultural landmarks. With its central position and panoramic river views, the hotel offers the perfect blend of modern comfort and easy access to Hue’s historic sites, royal tombs, and vibrant local life.
The hotel’s interiors reflect a harmonious mix of contemporary design and subtle imperial touches, inspired by the city’s royal heritage. Each room and suite is spacious and thoughtfully appointed with plush bedding, elegant furnishings, and modern amenities. Many rooms offer sweeping views of the Perfume River, the Trang Tien Bridge, or the rooftops of the old city.
Guests can unwind with a swim in the rooftop pool, enjoy a rejuvenating treatment at the spa, or take in the sunset with a cocktail at the Sky Bar. Dining is a standout feature, with several restaurants serving a variety of Vietnamese and international cuisine in stylish, relaxed settings.
With gracious service, elegant surroundings, and an unbeatable location, TTC Imperial Hotel Hue is the ideal base for exploring the culture, history, and charm of Vietnam’s imperial city while returning each evening to comfort and relaxation.
Bel Marina Hoi An Resort is a stylish five-star riverside retreat perfectly positioned on the edge of Hoi An’s Ancient Town. Just a short stroll from the iconic Japanese Covered Bridge and lantern lit streets, the resort offers an ideal combination of modern comfort, cultural charm, and easy access to the town’s historic landmarks, vibrant markets, and riverside cafés.
The resort’s interiors are thoughtfully designed, blending contemporary finishes with subtle nods to Hoi An’s heritage. Each room and suite is beautifully appointed with soft neutral tones, plush bedding, and elegant bathrooms. Many feature private balconies with views over the Thu Bon River or the resort’s lush tropical gardens, creating a calm and serene atmosphere throughout.
Guests can unwind beside the expansive infinity pool overlooking the river, indulge in a traditional massage at the full service spa, or enjoy sunset cocktails at the poolside bar. Dining is a highlight, with a range of restaurants offering both authentic Vietnamese cuisine and international favourites served in relaxed, stylish settings.
With warm hospitality, modern comforts, and an unbeatable riverside location, Bel Marina Hoi An Resort is the perfect base for discovering the beauty, culture, and timeless charm of Hoi An while enjoying a peaceful and indulgent stay.
Mekong Ecolodge Homestay is a peaceful riverside retreat nestled on Tan Phong Island in the heart of the Mekong Delta. Surrounded by lush fruit orchards, winding canals, and friendly local communities, this charming ecolodge offers a unique opportunity to experience authentic southern Vietnamese life in a tranquil, natural setting.
Built entirely with locally sourced materials, the homestay features traditional style bungalows designed to harmonise with the environment. Each room is simple yet comfortable, with bamboo furnishings, private verandas, and open air bathrooms that bring guests closer to nature. The sounds of birds, rustling palms, and passing boats create a calming atmosphere throughout the day.
Guests are encouraged to immerse themselves in local culture by joining a variety of hands on activities, from cooking jackfruit leaf cakes and fishing with traditional tools, to cycling through nearby villages and picking tropical fruits straight from the tree. Meals are home-cooked using ingredients grown onsite or sourced from local farms, offering an authentic taste of the Delta.
With its warm hospitality, eco conscious design, and deep connection to the surrounding community, Mekong Ecolodge Homestay is a memorable base for travellers seeking simplicity, culture, and a genuine connection to life along the Mekong River.
The Myst Dong Khoi is a contemporary five star retreat set in the heart of Ho Chi Minh City’s vibrant District 1, offering a unique blend of modern flair and nostalgic charm. Located just steps from the Saigon River and the boutiques, cafés, and colonial architecture of Dong Khoi Street, the hotel provides an immersive urban escape with an artistic spirit that reflects the energy of the city.
The hotel’s interiors feature a distinctive design that merges rustic textures with eclectic detail. Each room and suite is individually styled, with handcrafted furnishings, vintage accents, and deep wooden soaking tubs set against lush balconies and greenery filled spaces. Rooms are equipped with luxurious bedding, modern amenities, and floor to ceiling windows that open to views of the city’s rooftops or treetops.
Guests can unwind at the rooftop pool with sweeping views of the skyline, relax at KL Spa with traditional Vietnamese therapies, or enjoy sunset cocktails at Bar Bleu. Dining is an experience in itself, with the Nest restaurant serving elevated Vietnamese cuisine in a setting that feels both intimate and atmospheric.
With bold design, thoughtful service, and an exceptional location in the cultural heart of Saigon, The Myst Dong Khoi is a memorable base for discovering the city’s vibrant soul while enjoying comfort with creative edge.
Price & Availability:
Kindly be advised that all reservations are contingent upon availability and will be officially confirmed within 24 hours of receiving your booking request. Our prices are denominated in Australian dollars, and any currency conversions will be processed at midnight daily. Given the fluctuating nature of exchange rates, prices are subject to change until we receive full payment.
Accommodation Flexibility:
Accommodation for this tour is offered exclusively in 5 star hotels and eco-lodges. Travellers may choose their preferred hotel category in each destination based on comfort level and budget. All hotels have been carefully selected for quality, location, and service. The advertised “from” price is based on 5 star accommodation and low season travel. Surcharges may apply during peak season, public holidays, or high-demand periods. If a selected hotel is unavailable at the time of booking, a comparable property of the same standard and location will be offered.
Day Tours and Excursions:
All included excursions are privately guided unless otherwise noted. Experiences such as the motorbike tours in Hanoi and Ho Chi Minh City, cooking classes in Hoi An, and the Mekong Delta homestay are all conducted by trusted local partners. While most activities include hotel pick-up, some may require travellers to meet at a central location. Optional excursions, including street food tours or countryside cycling, are also available to enhance your itinerary. If you would like to personalise your experience, private upgrade options are available on request and subject to additional cost.
Booking on Request:
Please note that all reservations are processed upon request. A deposit may be required to request the room. Confirmation will be provided within 24 hours of your booking inquiry. If your preferred dates are unavailable, we’ll suggest suitable alternatives or promptly refund your deposit.
Dynamic Pricing:
Please be aware that many hotels in Vietnam operate on dynamic pricing. Due to high demand, particularly during peak seasons, room rates can fluctuate based on occupancy levels. As a result, prices may change from the time of your original quote until payment is received and the booking is confirmed.
We recommend securing your accommodation as early as possible to lock in the quoted rates. If your selected accommodation is no longer available at the time of booking, we will offer alternative options of similar cost, comfort level, and location whenever possible.
Itinerary Order and Availability:
Please note that the order of the itinerary may be subject to change to ensure availability of accommodation and day tour experiences. While we aim to follow the proposed itinerary as closely as possible, slight adjustments may be necessary depending on availability at the time of booking.
The final order of day tours and activities will be confirmed and locked in once your booking is secured. For bookings made outside of peak travel periods and with sufficient lead time, itinerary changes are unlikely. However, during busy seasons or for last-minute bookings, some flexibility may be required to accommodate availability.
Rest assured, any adjustments will be made with the aim of maintaining the quality and overall experience of your journey.
Payment Terms:
A deposit of 30% is required at the time of of booking to for confirmation. Full payment must be settled at least 45 days before the arrival date.
Changes & Cancellation
Cancellations are permitted up to 14 days before departure, with a refund minus a 10% cancellation fee.
Changes are permitted up to 35 days prior to departure.
100% cancellation fees will apply within 14 days of arrival, unless otherwise stated.
Please note: Train and flight tickets included in your itinerary are non-refundable once confirmed. Any amounts paid for these will be in addition to the 10% cancellation fee.
If you’d rather chat, give one of our Travelcation Experts a call today to begin crafting your bespoke holiday experience.