12-Day Vietnam Heritage Tour: Explore the Best of UNESCO Cultural & Natural Sites In Vietnam

Travel Itinerary of 12-Day Vietnam Heritage Tour: Explore UNESCO’s Cultural & Natural Wonders

Day 1. Hanoi arrival & Hanoi city tour.Overnight at 4* Hanoi Tirant (L)

Welcome to Hanoi: The Vibrant Colonial Heart of Vietnam

Upon your arrival at Noi Bai Airport, our representative will be waiting for you at the arrival terminal, holding a sign with your name, Mrs./Ms. [Your Name], and your flight number: ……….. landing at ………….. After a warm greeting, you’ll be transferred to your hotel in Hanoi. Please note that check-in is available after 2:00 PM.

Meet your guide at the hotel to begin your exploration of Hanoi’s top attractions:

• Ho Chi Minh Complex: Start your journey with a visit to the Presidential Palace, a stunning example of French colonial architecture, and the Ho Chi Minh House on stilts, which reflects the simple lifestyle of Ho Chi Minh, one of Vietnam’s most revered leaders. Conclude this visit at the One Pillar Pagoda, famed for its distinctive architecture and deep cultural significance.
• The Imperial Citadel of Thang Long, a UNESCO World Heritage site, is a symbol of Vietnam’s rich history and cultural heritage, which showcases a unique blend of architectural styles and historical significance
• Hanoi Old Quarter: Immerse yourself in the lively atmosphere of Hanoi’s Old Quarter, where narrow, ancient streets are lined with shops offering traditional goods.
• Hanoi Train Street: End your day at this iconic spot. Relax in a cozy café, savor a cup of the famous egg coffee or another beverage (at your own expense), and watch the trains pass by. It’s a perfect location for memorable photos and experiencing the unique local vibe.

After the tour, return to your hotel, check in, and enjoy your free time at leisure

Inclusions : AC car transfer with driver for the airport pick-up & day tour, tourguide of English speaking, entrance sightseeing fees of mentioned visiting places, meals (L- lunch), double/twin shared room in 4* Hanoi Tirant Hotel or similar

Day 2. Hanoi – Halong bay, kayak to Luon tunnel & visit Ti Top Island.Overnight on 5* Victory Star Cruise or similar (B,L)

Today’s journey is to Halong bay, a famous UNESCO natural heritage site & the must-see tourist destination in Vietnam.

• 8h15 -8:30. Our car with driver will pick you up at the hotel ( please, be on time & ready at the hotel’s lobby) & takes 2.5 hour drive along Red River Delta on Hanoi – Halong Highway to Halong city.
• 11:30 – 11:45 .You are ready at Halong International Habor ( Sun Group harbour- right in Halong city)
• 12:15 Embark on the cruise by tender. Check-in, enjoy welcome drinks and cruise briefing
• 13:00 Enjoy lunch while cruising to magnificent Ha Long Bay, and admire the fascinating formations on the way
• 14:45 Luon cave – kayaking or bamboo boat. Luon cave excursion on bamboo rowing boat by locals or kayaking. This is one of the must-do activities in the bay.
• 16:00 Titop Island – Climbing, Beach & Swimming. Your next stop is Titop Island with its famous crescent moon-shaped beach and tranquil beautiful blue waters. Viewing Halong Bay from the peak of Titop Island is another not-to-be-missed activity.
• 17:00 – 18:30 Enjoy the best moments of the day at sundeck as the sun hits the water between the dramatic limestone peaks and emerald-green coves, enjoying drinks and a cooking demonstration.
• 19:15 Savour a delicious dinner
• 21:00 Night-time squid fishing
• 22:30 Free of mind with sweet dreams

Overnight on 5* Victory Star Cruise

Inclusions : AC car transfer with driver Hanoi – Halong bay, English speaking tourguide on the cruise, sight-seeing entrance fees, kayaking or rowing boat fees, meals (B- Breakfast, L-Lunch, D- Dinner), twin/double cabin on 5* Victory Star Cruise or similar

Day 3. Halong bay visit to Amazing Cave – Hanoi city.Overnight in 4* Hanoi Tirant Hotel (B,L)

We recommend starting your day early to enjoy a serene sunrise over the bay, followed by an exploration of Sung Sot Cave.

• 06:15: Witness the sunrise over the bay and join a Tai Chi session on the sundeck.
• 06:30: Enjoy a light breakfast with coffee, tea, and pastries in the restaurant.
• 07:20: Explore Sung Sot Cave, the largest and most impressive cave in Halong Bay.
• 09:15: Check out of your cabin, settle your bill, and begin your cruise back to the port.
• 09:30: Savor a buffet brunch in the restaurant.
• 10:45 – 11:00: Arrive back at the port, say farewell, and disembark.
• 11:15 – 11:30: Meet your driver for a transfer to Hanoi city. Check-in your hotel & be free at your own relaxation

Inclusions : AC car transportation with driver Halong- Hanoi, local tourguide of English speaking on cruise, meals (B-breakfast, L-lunch), entrance sightseeing fees of mentioned visiting places, twin/double-shared room in 4* Hanoi Tirant Hotel or similar

Day 4. Hanoi – Ninh Binh, visit Hoa Lu ancient capital, Trang An Ecotourism Complex & Mua cave. Overnight train Ninh Binh to Dong Hoi (B,L)

07:30 – 08:00: After checking out of your room and gathering your luggage, meet our friendly guide who will pick you up for the journey to Ninh Binh province.

09:15: Take a short 15-20 minute break to relax.

10:30: Pay a visit to Hoa Lu, the ancient capital of Vietnam from 968 to 1009. Learn about Vietnamese history during the Dinh, Le, and Ly Dynasties.

11:45: Enjoy a Vietnamese lunch at a local restaurant featuring a variety of regional dishes.Vegetarian options are also available upon your request.

13:00: Explore Trang An, a UNESCO World Heritage Site recognized in 2014. Famous for its stunning cave system, Trang An was chosen as a filming location for the 2016 movie “Kong: Skull Island.” Enjoy a two-hour boat trip through this breathtaking landscape.

15:30: Head to Mua Cave (Dancing Cave) & hike on nearly 500 steps to reach the summit of Lying Dragon Mountain for a panoramic view of Tam Coc & Trang An.

17:00: Conclude your Ninh Binh day trip and enjoy free time for dinner in Tam Coc area (dinner at your own expense).

20:45: Meet at the designated point and transfer to Ninh Binh railway station for the night train to Dong Hoi city, departing at 21:50.

Overnight on the train.

Inclusions : AC car transfer with driver Hanoi – Ninh Binh, English speaking tourguide for the day tour, sight-seeing entrance fees, boat ride in Trang An, meals (B- Breakfast, L-Lunch), solf sleeper berth on a AC 4 – berth cabin on Lotus Train or similar

Day 5. Dong Hoi day trip visit to Phong Nha cave & Paradise Grotto – Dong Hoi.Overnight in 4* Muong Thanh Luxury Hotel Dong Hoi (L)

6:00 AM. – The train will arrive at Dong Hoi station. Our private car, with a driver holding a sign with your name : Mr/Ms……… will be waiting for you at the Dong Hoi Railway Station exit. The driver will take you on a short drive to your hotel. You can drop off your luggage at the hotel (check-in is after 14:00) and enjoy some free time for breakfast or coffee (at your own expense)

7:30 – 8:00 A.M. – Our driver and guide will pick you up at the hotel and head to Phong Nha-Ke Bang National Park.

9:00 AM – Visit Paradise Cave, discovered by the British Caving Research Association in 2005. It is the longest dry cave in Asia, stretching 31 km. You will be transported by electric car from the parking area to the base of the cave (2km). As you journey through the jungle, you’ll see various trees and hear the sounds of wildlife. Explore about 1 km of the cave on wooden pathways, marveling at the diverse stalactite formations. Paradise Cave’s pristine natural features resemble a landscape painting, with striking white crystal stalactites that resemble glass pillars and other spectacular formations.

12:00 PM. – Enjoy lunch at a local restaurant featuring specialties prepared by the local people.

13:00 P.M. – Continue your adventure with a visit to Phong Nha Cave, renowned as one of the “First Cave Wonders.”

13:30 PM. – Take a boat ride approximately 5 km along the Son River to Phong Nha Cave. On the river, observe local life as you pass by waterfront scenes with girls and children playing and experience the charm of the riverside village.

Explore Phong Nha Cave – Known as the longest wet cave, it offers stunning limestone scenery, an underground river system, and unique stalactite formations. Admire the impressive stalactite formations created by nature over thousands of years.

16:00 – 16:30 PM. – Return to the boat station and transfer back to Dong Hoi city. Check in at your hotel and relax at your leisure.

Inclusions: AC car transfer with driver for railway transfer & day tour, English-speaking tour guide for the day tour, sightseeing entrance fees, boat ride to Phong Nha Caves, round-trip electric car transport to Paradise Cave, meals (L- lunch), double/twin shared room in 4* Muong Thanh Luxury Hotel Dong Hoi or similar

Day 6. Dong Hoi – Quang Tri DMZ, visit Vinh Moc tunnel, Hien Luong bridge & Ben Hai river – Hue city.Overnight in 4* Cherished Hotel Hue (B,L)

After breakfast, we head to Hue city, with a few stops en route to visit historical sites in Quang Tri province.This visit will provide you valuable insights into the past history during the Vietnam War

Upon arriving in the Quang Tri DMZ, you’ll explore the Vinh Moc Tunnels, famously known as the “Underground village”.The story of Vinh Moc village is a remarkable testament to human resilience. To evade heavy bombardments during the war, villagers dug approximately 2.8 kilometers of underground tunnels, using them as a refuge to survive the attacks.

Next, you’ll visit Hien Luong Bridge and Ben Hai River, marking the 17th Parallel. From 1954 to 1975, the Ben Hai River served as the dividing line between North and South Vietnam. The Demilitarized Zone (DMZ) extended 5 kilometers to the north and south of this line and was established as a result of the First Indochina War.

Following the visit, continue your journey to Hue, arriving in the late afternoon. Check into your accommodation and enjoy the evening at your leisure. Overnight stay in Hue.

Inclusions: AC car transfer with driver for day tour, English-speaking tour guide for the day tour, sightseeing entrance fees, meals (B-breakfast, L- lunch), double/twin shared room in 4* Cherished Hotel Hue or similar

Day 7. Hue city tour to visit its royal palace & monuments – Da Nang. Overnight in 4* Alani Hotel Da Nang (B,L)

8:00 A.M– Your guide and driver will pick you up from your hotel and take you to the pier for a relaxing boat ride along the Perfume River. This picturesque journey will lead you to the Thien Mu Pagoda (Heaven Fairy Lady Pagoda), the oldest pagoda in Hue. Make a visit to this pagoda & get to know about the Buddhism influence in the region

After the pagoda, we’ll drive to a verdant valley along the Huong River, where you’ll find the tombs of seven Nguyen Emperors. We’ll visit two of these remarkable tombs: Khai Dinh Tomb, notable for its distinctive blend of Western and Eastern architectural styles, and Minh Mang Tomb, famous for its grandeur and considered the most majestic of all the Royal Tombs. These visits will offer a glimpse into the royal lives and architectural achievements of the Nguyen Dynasty.

After exploring the tombs, we’ll head out of the city for lunch in a charming garden setting, where you can enjoy traditional Hue cuisine.

In the afternoon, we’ll return to the city center to discover the Imperial Citadel and the Forbidden Purple City, built in the 19th century for the Nguyen Emperors.

Next, we’ll drive to Da Nang via scenic coastal roads, with stops for stunning photos at Lap An fishing village and Hai Van Pass.

By late afternoon, you’ll arrive at your hotel in Da Nang, check in, and have the rest of the day to relax.

Overnight stay in Da Nang.

Inclusions: AC car transfer with driver for day tour & transfer to Da Nang, boat ride in Perfume river, English-speaking tour guide for the day tour, sightseeing entrance fees, meals (B-breakfast, L- lunch), double/twin shared room in 4* Alani Hotel Da Nang or similar

Day 8. Da Nang day trip to Cam Thanh coconut village, My Son Holy Land & Hoi An ancient town. Overnight in 4* Alani Hotel Danang (B,L)

8:00 A.M. Tourguide & driver will pick you up at the hotel &  will drive to Cam Thanh Coconut Village, located about 40 minutes from the city. This village is renowned for its lush coconut palms and traditional river-based activities. Here, you’ll get on a basket boat ride through the coconut forest, getting a glimpse into the daily lives of Vietnamese fishermen, their families, and their communities. You’ll feel the thrill of floating on the water and can even participate in a fun-filled basket boat race, complete with lively music and cheering.

During the boat ride, you’ll also have the chance to watch local fishermen perform round net or cast net techniques. If you’re interested in rowing the boat yourself, the boat rowers will teach you how to paddle the unique Vietnamese bamboo basket boat.

10:30 A.M. We will drive to My Son Holy Land, a UNESCO World Heritage site located approximately 1.5 hours from Cam Thanh Village. My Son was a religious center of the Champa Kingdom and features a collection of ancient Hindu temples set against a picturesque mountain backdrop. Take a tour around to learn about the history, architecture, and significance of this sacred site.

1:00 P.M. After exploring My Son, we will head to a local restaurant for lunch. Enjoy a selection of traditional Vietnamese dishes in a relaxed setting, providing a delicious taste of local cuisine.

2:00 P.M. Following lunch, we’ll drive to Hoi An Ancient Town, a well-preserved heritage site renowned for its charming streets and historical architecture. Upon arrival, start exploring this UNESCO World Heritage town on foot, taking in the beautifully preserved buildings, vibrant markets, and quaint streets. Highlights include the Japanese Covered Bridge, the historic homes of prominent families, and the bustling Old Town Market. Enjoy some free time to shop for local handicrafts, savor street food, or simply soak in the atmosphere.

5:30 P.M. As the afternoon winds down, we’ll head back to Da Nang. Along the way, you can relax and reflect on the day’s experiences.

6:30 P.M. You will arrive back at your hotel in Da Nang by early evening. Check in and enjoy the remainder of your evening at leisure.

Overnight in Da Nang.

Inclusions: AC car transfer with driver for day tour, boat ride in Cam Thanh village, English-speaking tour guide for the day tour, sightseeing entrance fees, meals (B-breakfast, L- lunch), double/twin shared room in 4* Alani Hotel Da Nang or similar

Day 9. Da Nang visit to Ba Na hills & Golden Bridge – afternoon flight to HCMC.Overnight in 4* Au Lac Charner Hotel (B,L)

7:30 A.M. Your guide and driver will meet you at the hotel lobby & head out on a scenic 45-minute drive to Ba Na Hills, a renowned hill station and resort complex located high in the mountains, offering breathtaking views and unique attractions.

8:30 A.M. Upon arrival at the Ba Na Hills, you’ll board the world’s longest non-stop single-track cable car, which will take you up to the hill station. As you ascend, enjoy the stunning panoramic views of lush green mountains, waterfalls, and dense forests below. The cable car ride itself is an unforgettable experience, offering an excellent vantage point of the surrounding landscape.

9:00 A.M. Your first stop at Ba Na Hills is the iconic Golden Bridge, a must-see attraction that has captured the world’s imagination. This magnificent structure, supported by two giant stone hands, stretches 150 meters across the lush mountainscape, offering awe-inspiring views of the landscape below. Take your time to walk along the bridge, marvel at its unique architecture, and capture stunning photos of the surrounding scenery.

10:00 A.M. Continue your exploration to Le Jardin d’Amour, a beautifully landscaped garden complex with nine different themed gardens. Stroll through the vibrant floral displays, each offering a unique atmosphere and design. Following the gardens, visit the Linh Ung Pagoda, home to a towering white Buddha statue that stands at 27 meters tall, providing a serene and spiritual ambiance with views of the Ba Na mountain range.

11:00 A.M. Head to the charming French Village, a replica of a traditional French town complete with cobblestone streets, medieval-style buildings, and an old-world ambiance. Wander through the quaint streets, visit the Gothic-style church, and soak in the European atmosphere. If time allows, you can also explore Fantasy Park, an indoor amusement park with a variety of games, rides, and entertainment options suitable for all ages.

12:30 P.M. Enjoy a delicious lunch at one of the local restaurants in Ba Na Hills. Savor a variety of Vietnamese and international dishes while taking in the mountain views from the restaurant’s terrace.

2:30 P.M. After lunch, take the cable car back down to the base of Ba Na Hills. Your driver will be waiting to transfer you to Da Nang International Airport for your flight to Ho Chi Minh City. 

5:30 P.M. Board your afternoon flight to Ho Chi Minh City. The flight duration is about 1.5 hours, during which you can rest and prepare for the next leg of your journey. 

7:00 P.M.Once you’ve arrived in Tan Son Nhat airport, our driver will hold your signed name ………..….at the arrival terminal, following your flight number…….. & its landing time….. . He will pick you up & transfer to your hotel in the city center. After checking in, you’ll have the evening free to relax, explore the bustling streets of the city.

Overnight in Ho Chi Minh City.

Inclusions: AC car transfer with driver for day tour & airport transfers, English-speaking tour guide for the day tour, returned cable car ticket in Ba Na hills, sightseeing entrance fees of mentioned visiting places, meals (B-breakfast, L- lunch), double/twin shared room in 4* Au Lac Charner Hotel or similar

Day 10.HCMC Day Trip to Mekong River Delta- HCMC.Overnight in HCMC (B,L)

7:30 – 7:45 AM: The tour guide and driver will pick up your family and depart for My Tho, a town situated on the left bank of the Mekong River. Upon arrival, visit the Vinh Trang Pagoda, which dates back to the late 19th century. Next, board a sampan for a scenic cruise around the four beautiful islands—Dragon, Unicorn, Phoenix, and Tortoise Islands.

Stop at Unicorn Island to stroll along country lanes, explore orchards, and savor tropical fruits while enjoying traditional folk music performed by locals. Visit a fruit plantation and take a hand-rowed sampan ride through the Thoi Son Canal to experience the serene beauty of the countryside. Visit a local family business, a honey bee farm, and enjoy honey tea and a coconut candy workshop.

Have lunch at a local restaurant.

In the afternoon, you can cycle around Tan Thach Village, interacting with local villagers and experiencing daily life in the Mekong Delta. For those who prefer, relax in a hammock and enjoy the cool breeze instead of cycling.

5:30 PM: Return to Ho Chi Minh City and be dropped off at the hotel.

Inclusions: AC car transfer for the Mekong Delta tour, English-speaking tour guide, entrance fees to mentioned attractions, meals (B-breakfast, L-lunch), boat ride, bike rental, and folk music performance, twin/double room in 4* Au Lac Charner Hotel or similar

Day 11.HCMC visit to the city’s highlights & Cu Chi tunnels.Overnight in HCMC (B,L)

8:00 AM: The guide & driver will pick you at your hotel & head towards the historic Cu Chi Tunnels, an extensive underground network built by Vietnamese fighters during the struggle for independence. This underground city, developed over 25 years, features living quarters, kitchens, hospitals, weapon factories, storage areas, and a command center. The tunnels were a vital means for the Viet Cong to move undetected through the countryside, providing shelter for around 10,000 people during the war.

Before exploring the tunnels, you’ll watch a brief introductory video detailing their construction. Then, spend the next hour navigating this intricate maze. You’ll also see various traps, an American tank’s remains, and bomb craters from 500-pound bombs dropped by B-52 bombers.

After the tunnel tour, enjoy lunch at a local restaurant. We’ll then return to Ho Chi Minh City to visit the city’s highights

• The iconic Notre Dame Cathedral, located in the heart of the city. Built by the French in 1877, this cathedral is not only Vietnam’s oldest Christian church but also a remarkable example of Saigon’s unique architecture.
• The General Post Office, designed by Gustav Eiffel. This grand building, reminiscent of an elegant railway station, stands as a testament to the French presence in the late 1800s.
• The Reunification Palace, the former residence of the President of the Republic of Vietnam. On April 30, 1975, when a North Vietnamese soldier entered this building with a red flag, the world witnessed the end of the Vietnam War.
• Ben Thanh Market, one of the most vibrant areas of Ho Chi Minh City. Here, you’ll find a wide array of goods, from food to souvenirs. You’ll also visit a lacquer workshop to observe the intricate craftsmanship involved in creating this traditional Vietnamese art.

Back to your hotel after the visit & be free at your own leisure.

Inclusions: AC car transfer with driver for day tour, English-speaking tour guide for the day tour, sightseeing entrance fees of mentioned visiting places, meals (B-breakfast, L- lunch), double/twin shared room in 4* Au Lac Charner Hotel or similar

Day 12.HCMC Departure (B).

Today, you will have free time for shopping or relaxing at your leisure. Around 4 hours before your flight time ( intenational flight), our car with driver will pick you up and transfer to Tan Son Nhat Airport for your onward flight. This marks the end of your 12-day Vietnam Heritage Tour. We look forward to welcoming you on another journey to Vietnam.

Inclusions: AC car transfer with driver for the airport transfer, meals (B-breakfast)