14 Day South to North Vietnam Like a Local 4 Star

Travellers arrive in Ho Chi Minh City, still known by many as Saigon. A local guide and private driver will be waiting at Tan Son Nhat Airport to provide a comfortable transfer to the hotel. Check-in is usually from 2.00 pm, although early check-in can be arranged at an extra cost. For those who are eager to explore right away, there are a couple of optional activities available. Travellers might choose to attend the acclaimed A O Show at the Saigon Opera House or join a guided night tour of the city by motorbike. These activities offer an exciting introduction to the energy and vibrancy of the southern capital.

Meals: Not included
Accommodation: Eden Star Saigon Hotel

This morning or afternoon, depending on availability, travellers will take part in a guided motorbike tour of the city. Riding pillion with an experienced driver, the tour begins with visits to some of Ho Chi Minh City’s most recognisable landmarks including the Central Post Office and the Opera House. The Notre Dame Cathedral, currently closed for renovations, can be viewed from the outside. The ride continues along Nguyen Hue Walking Street with its photogenic apartment cafés and the former City Hall. From there, the journey veers off the tourist path to discover hidden spots such as the Thich Quang Duc monument, the lively Ho Thi Ky flower market, Thien Hau Pagoda and the Cambodian market. The tour ends in Nguyen Thien Thuat, a historic apartment complex well known for its street food and local vibe. On the return journey, the route passes through Nguyen Trai Street, lined with fashion boutiques and local shops.

Meals: Breakfast
Accommodation: Eden Star Saigon Hotel

After breakfast, travellers leave the city behind and journey to Cai Be, a riverside town in the Mekong Delta. The first stop is at a craft village that makes coconut candy, where visitors can watch the traditional process and taste fresh candy. Next is a bee farm where guests can enjoy honey tea and learn about daily rural life. From there, a boat takes the group to Tan Phong Island. Upon arrival, there is time to explore a local orchard filled with seasonal tropical fruits such as durian, longan and rambutan. Guests are welcome to pick and taste the fruit straight from the tree. A visit to a local home includes a traditional Vietnamese folk music performance called Don Ca Tai Tu, accompanied by fresh tea and fruit. Travellers then board a small rowing boat and glide through the narrow canals to reach the Mekong Ecolodge, where lunch is served. In the afternoon, there is an opportunity to walk through the garden or participate in ditch fishing using traditional tools. Guests then help prepare dinner with the catch of the day before sharing a homemade meal with the host family.

Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
Accommodation: Mekong Ecolodge Homestay

The day begins with the peaceful sounds of the Mekong countryside. After breakfast, a cycling tour of the island includes stops at local workshops to learn about traditional handicrafts. Guests can watch rice paper being made, try hammock weaving with banana fibres, and see the detailed work of bamboo nail file crafting. The final stop is a hands-on cooking class where guests learn to prepare jackfruit leaf cake, a Mekong specialty. After the workshop, it is time to say goodbye to the island. Travellers board a local ferry and meet the driver for the transfer back to Ho Chi Minh City, stopping for lunch on the way. Upon arrival at the airport, they board a domestic flight to Da Nang. After landing, a short drive brings them to their hotel in Hoi An for an evening at leisure.

Meals: Breakfast, Lunch
Accommodation: Hoi An Delicacy Hotel & Spa

The day is free for travellers to explore Hoi An at their own pace. They may choose to visit the beach, wander the peaceful streets of the ancient town or relax at a riverside café. In the late afternoon, a guided food tour begins through the narrow alleys of Hoi An. Stops include iconic local eateries such as Banh Mi Phuong, often referred to as the best Vietnamese sandwich in the country. Other tastings include Cao Lau, a dry noodle dish with layers of flavour, Banh Beo rice cakes, Banh Khot savoury pancakes and the adventurous delicacy known as balut. The tour ends with a rich cup of Vietnamese coffee, often served with sweetened condensed milk or egg yolk for a creamy finish. Guests return to their hotel after a satisfying and adventurous culinary experience.

Meals: Breakfast, Dinner
Accommodation: Hoi An Delicacy Hotel & Spa

After breakfast, travellers set out on a guided bicycle ride to Cam Thanh Village on the edge of Hoi An. There they meet a local farming family and take part in traditional activities such as ploughing, transplanting rice seedlings, raking and harvesting. Brave guests are invited to ride a water buffalo for a unique photo opportunity. The experience continues at a nearby fishing village where visitors learn to cast fishing nets and paddle a round basket boat through the coconut palms. A home-cooked lunch is served in a local house before returning to the hotel for a well-earned rest.

Meals: Breakfast, Lunch
Accommodation: Hoi An Delicacy Hotel & Spa

After breakfast, the journey continues by private vehicle along one of Vietnam’s most scenic coastal routes. The drive over the Hai Van Pass offers panoramic views where mountains meet the sea. There may be opportunities to stop for photos along the way. In the afternoon, travellers arrive in Hue, the former imperial capital, and check in to the hotel. The rest of the day is free to relax or explore nearby areas.

Meals: Breakfast
Accommodation: Eldora Hotel

The day begins with a peaceful dragon boat cruise along the Perfume River to Thien Mu Pagoda, an elegant seven-storey tower surrounded by gardens. From there, the journey continues to Thuy Bieu Eco Village where visitors stroll or cycle through fragrant pomelo orchards and ancient garden houses. Stops at local workshops offer a closer look at incense making and traditional paper painting. A cooking class at Hue Ecolodge introduces guests to Hue-style dishes such as spring rolls and Banh Khoai pancakes. After lunch, enjoy a relaxing herbal foot soak and massage provided by skilled blind therapists. The afternoon concludes with a return to the hotel.

Meals: Breakfast, Lunch
Accommodation: Eldora Hotel

After breakfast, the entire day is free for personal exploration. Travellers may visit the Hue Citadel, take a bicycle into the countryside or choose an optional guided day tour to the former demilitarised zone. There is no scheduled program, allowing time for rest or discovery.

Meals: Breakfast
Accommodation: Eldora Hotel

After breakfast, guests enjoy some free time before being transferred to the airport for the short flight to Hanoi. Upon arrival in the capital, a private transfer takes them to the hotel for check-in and rest. In the evening, a guided food tour begins in the atmospheric Old Quarter. Travellers sample a range of northern Vietnamese dishes such as Pho Bo, Bun Thang and Banh Cuon. Additional street snacks may include dried beef salad and fried fermented pork rolls. The tour ends with a cup of traditional egg coffee, a Hanoi original.

Meals: Breakfast, Dinner
Accommodation: Hanoi Pearl Hotel

This morning begins with a motorbike tour to explore some of Hanoi’s most well loved landmarks and hidden corners. Guests ride behind experienced drivers and visit Long Bien Bridge, Chuong Duong Bridge and the Hanoi Opera House. Stops include Hoan Kiem Lake, Ly Thai To Monument, Hoa Lo Prison and West Lake, the largest lake in the city. Guests also visit Tran Quoc Pagoda, Huu Tiep Lake and the B52 crash site, learning about Vietnam’s wartime past. The tour ends at the Ho Chi Minh Mausoleum, which is viewed from the outside, followed by lunch at a local restaurant. The rest of the afternoon is free for personal activities.

Meals: Breakfast, Lunch
Accommodation: Hanoi Pearl Hotel

After breakfast, travellers are picked up and driven to Halong Bay. Upon arrival, they board a traditional junk boat and begin a scenic cruise through the bay’s limestone islands. A fresh lunch is served on board. In the afternoon, guests can take part in kayaking, swimming or explore a limestone cave, depending on the specific cruise itinerary. Later, they may enjoy sunset drinks and a cooking demonstration before dinner is served on board. Evening options include squid fishing or games with other passengers.

Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
Accommodation: Peony Cruise

The day begins early with tai chi on deck or a relaxing breakfast. Morning activities may include a short excursion such as a cave visit or rowing boat ride. Guests enjoy brunch as the cruise returns to the harbour. Disembarkation is between 11.00 and 12.00 followed by a transfer back to Hanoi. The rest of the day is free to explore or rest at the hotel.

Meals: Breakfast, Brunch
Accommodation: Hanoi Pearl Hotel

Travellers enjoy their final morning in Hanoi before checking out. A private transfer is arranged to the airport for the departure flight. Hotel check-out is by 12.00 midday. A later check-out can be arranged for an additional fee.

Meals: Breakfast

Eden Star Saigon Hotel is a contemporary four star hotel located in the vibrant heart of Ho Chi Minh City. Just a short stroll from Ben Thanh Market and the city’s iconic attractions, the hotel offers a comfortable and convenient base for travellers eager to explore Saigon’s dynamic energy, historic architecture, and famous street food scene.

Blending modern design with warm Vietnamese hospitality, the hotel features stylish rooms with soft neutral tones, large windows, and thoughtful amenities including complimentary Wi-Fi, plush bedding, and well-appointed bathrooms. Many rooms offer panoramic views over the bustling city skyline, providing a peaceful retreat after a day of exploration.

Guests can take advantage of the hotel’s facilities including a rooftop swimming pool with city views, a fitness centre, and a relaxing spa offering traditional Vietnamese therapies. The inhouse restaurant serves a generous buffet breakfast and a mix of local and international dishes, while the rooftop bar is a perfect spot for a sunset cocktail above the Saigon skyline.

With its central location, modern comforts, and attentive service, Eden Star Saigon Hotel is an ideal choice for travellers seeking both convenience and value in the heart of Ho Chi Minh City.

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.

Hoi An Delicacy Hotel & Spa is a refined four-star boutique escape ideally located just outside Hoi An’s Ancient Town. Tucked beside the quiet banks of the Hoai River and within walking distance to the lantern lit streets, historic temples, and riverside cafés, the hotel offers a peaceful yet convenient base for exploring this UNESCO listed destination.

Combining understated elegance with traditional charm, the hotel’s interiors feature soft earth tones, hand crafted decor, and local art pieces that reflect Hoi An’s heritage. Each guest room is spacious and thoughtfully appointed with wooden furnishings, rain showers, and private balconies or garden views, offering a relaxing sanctuary after a day of discovery.

Guests can enjoy a refreshing swim in the rooftop pool, unwind at the spa with a traditional Vietnamese massage, or sip a cocktail while watching the sunset over the river. The hotel’s restaurant serves a range of Vietnamese specialities and international favourites, using fresh, locally sourced ingredients in a warm and relaxed setting.

With its welcoming atmosphere, tasteful design, and easy access to Hoi An’s cultural treasures, Hoi An Delicacy Hotel & Spa is an ideal choice for travellers seeking comfort, style, and a true sense of place in one of Vietnam’s most charming towns.

Eldora Hotel is a distinctive four star boutique hotel located in the heart of Hue, Vietnam’s former imperial capital. Just minutes from the Perfume River and the historic Citadel, the hotel offers elegant accommodation with easy access to the city’s most iconic landmarks, royal tombs, and vibrant local markets.

Blending classical French architecture with luxurious touches, Eldora’s interiors evoke a sense of timeless sophistication. Each room and suite is richly styled with ornate furnishings, hardwood floors, and marble bathrooms. Gold-accented decor and large windows create a warm, inviting space, while modern amenities ensure a comfortable and seamless stay.

Guests can take in panoramic views of the city from the indoor rooftop pool, unwind with a drink at the lobby lounge, or stay active in the on-site fitness centre. The hotel’s restaurant offers a refined dining experience, serving both local Vietnamese cuisine and international favourites in an elegant setting.

With gracious hospitality, romantic atmosphere, and a prime central location, Eldora Hotel is an ideal base for travellers seeking both cultural immersion and comfort while exploring the historic charm of Hue.

Hanoi Pearl Hotel is a polished four star retreat ideally located in the heart of Hanoi’s Old Quarter, just steps from Hoan Kiem Lake and surrounded by the capital’s most treasured attractions. With its prime location, the hotel provides effortless access to Hanoi’s iconic landmarks, lively markets, traditional eateries, and cultural highlights.

Combining classic design with modern comforts, the hotel’s interiors feature a warm and welcoming atmosphere, accented by elegant furnishings and soft lighting. Each room and suite is tastefully appointed with plush bedding, spacious bathrooms, and essential amenities to ensure a restful and convenient stay. Many rooms offer views of the city or the historic streets below.

Guests can start their day with a generous buffet breakfast, relax with a drink at the rooftop bar overlooking Hanoi’s skyline, or unwind in the fitness and wellness centre after a day of sightseeing. The hotel’s restaurant offers a mix of Vietnamese specialities and international favourites in a refined yet relaxed setting.

With attentive service, elegant styling, and a location that puts Hanoi’s best experiences at your doorstep, Hanoi Pearl Hotel is a superb choice for travellers seeking charm, comfort, and cultural immersion in Vietnam’s capital.

Peony Cruise is a refined retreat offering a memorable journey through the tranquil waters of Lan Ha Bay, a peaceful and scenic extension of the famed Halong Bay. Departing from Hai Phong, the cruise takes guests off the well-worn path and into a landscape of limestone cliffs, emerald waters, and secluded sandy coves.

Designed with understated elegance and Vietnamese charm, the ship features beautifully furnished cabins with private balconies, floor-to-ceiling windows, and spacious ensuite bathrooms with deep soaking bathtubs. Each cabin is thoughtfully designed to maximise comfort and provide a private, restful space to enjoy panoramic views of the bay.

Guests can enjoy a range of enriching experiences including kayaking, swimming, exploring caves, or visiting floating villages. Onboard facilities include a rooftop sundeck perfect for morning tai chi or sunset drinks, a spa offering traditional treatments, and a relaxed bar and lounge area. The onboard restaurant showcases fresh local ingredients, offering a fusion of Vietnamese and international cuisine in a welcoming and scenic setting.

With its calm cruising route, well crafted experiences, and attentive service, Peony Cruise is an ideal way to experience the serene beauty and cultural richness of Lan Ha Bay in both comfort and style.