Vietnam, with its rich history, diverse landscapes, and vibrant culture, offers an unforgettable journey for travelers. If you're planning a 9-day tour of this captivating country, you'll have the opportunity to explore its wonders from north to south.

North to South Adventure

9 Days / 8 Nights

2N Ha Noi • 1N Ninh Binh • 1N Ha Long • 1N Da Nang • 1N Hoi An • 2N Ho Chi Minh City

Day 1 : Ha Noi - Arrival

Explore the Enchanting City of Ha Noi. Immerse yourself in the captivating blend of culture, history, and the intriguing contrasts of a rapidly developing yet deeply traditional society in Hanoi, one of Asia's most mesmerizing cities.

Arrange your transportation through Grab at Noi Bai International Airport for a smooth transfer to your hotel. After relaxing at the hotel, take the opportunity to discover the dynamic city of Hanoi at your leisure. Wander through the historic neighborhoods of the Old Quarter, savor authentic Vietnamese coffee at local cafes, and browse the vibrant night market during the weekends. Consider getting on the "Hop On Hop Off" night tour that’s about an hour hour to experience the city from a bus, a personal favorite activity in Ha Noi.

Know more about Ha Noi!

Day 2 : Day trip to Quang Phu Cau Incense Village + Ha Noi Train Street

Get a cab for the entire day and visit these places in peace. Head out to explore the vibrant Quang Phu Cau Incense Village, which is an Instagram hotspot. Covered in vibrant colours, the entire village is a heavenly sight, as the incense stick bundles bloom like flowers in all directions. Upon arrival, enjoy a walking tour of the incense village known for its bright red incense sticks, and get a glimpse into the traditional art of incense making. While here, interact with the locals and learn more about the history of the village.

From here, you can drive back to Ha Noi train street & grab some vietnamese coffee while looking at the trains passing through. Always remember to be cautious and listen to the locals instructions. The remainder of the evening can be used to visit the pristine lakes across the city, like Sword Lake, visit the night markets, and enjoy the delicious street food.

Make your way back to the hotel and enjoy a good night’s sleep.

Know more about Ha Noi!

Day 3 : Hanoi - Ninh Binh - Mua Cave - Trang An boat trip

Get ready and check out from your hotel. Head to Ninh Binh, a town renowned for its lush greenery, karstic rock formations, and numerous limestone caves. Upon arrival, visit Mua Cave and hike to the top of the rugged and majestic Ngoa Long Mountain. The summit offers spectacular views of the surrounding valley and rice fields, and at the foot of the mountain, you'll find a picturesque lotus pond.

Stop for a quick lunch before heading to Trang An Grottoes, a stunning group of mountains featuring magical valleys, beautiful freshwater ponds, and lush jungles. Enjoy a soothing boat ride through multiple caves and temples, including Lam Cave, Vang Cave, Dai Cave, Thanh Truot Cave, Cao Son Temple, Suoi Tien Temple, and Vu Lam Temple.

Later, make your way to your hotel in Tam Coc. Spend the evening exploring the charming streets, enjoying delicious food, dancing in the streets, grabbing a beer, or treating yourself to a relaxing massage.

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Day 4 : Ninh Binh - Halong Bay - Overnight cruise

Check out and depart for Halong Bay, renowned for its magnificent islands, cerulean shores, and otherworldly caves. Book an unforgettable overnight cruise experience. By noon, board the cruise and indulge in their services. Enjoy a decadent lunch at the restaurant as you sail past majestic landmarks like Chicken Rock and Finger Islet, named for their unique appearances.

In the early afternoon, disembark to explore the mystical Surprise Cave, one of the largest caves in Halong Bay. Visit Titop Island, known for its crescent-shaped shorelines, where you can swim in the jade waters and enjoy rejuvenating hikes.

Back on board, relax on the deck while soaking up the sun. As the sun sets, catch a special Vietnamese cooking and fruit carving demonstration on the deck or indoors, depending on the cruise and weather conditions. Savor a delicious supper at the restaurant in the evening. After dinner, unwind with a restful sleep or try your hand at squid fishing with the staff. Explore and enjoy the serene nighttime cruise, one of the best experiences in Vietnam.

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Day 5 : Halong Bay - Ha Noi - Flight to Danang

Wake up early to enjoy the sunrise and perhaps join a Tai Chi or yoga session on the cruise sundeck. Tai Chi is a popular Chinese martial art form that promotes relaxation and balance. After your workout, treat yourself to a light breakfast on the cruise.

Head out to explore the arc-shaped Luon Cave on a bamboo boat or a kayak. Inside the cave, you can spot fossil shells and, if you're lucky, some mischievous mountain monkeys. On the other side of the cave, a tranquil emerald lake surrounded by lofty mountains awaits, transporting you to another world.

Back on the cruise, enjoy a brunch at the restaurant as the cruise docks at the harbor. By noon, deboard at Tuan Chau Marina. From here, head to the Ha Noi airport for your flight or take a direct bus to Da Nang.

Once in Da Nang, check in at your hotel and rest after a fun-filled day. Explore the beaches, with numerous water adventure activities and sports to try. The eclectic nightlife is also a must-experience, with its spectacular night markets and lively party scenes. Stay overnight in Da Nang.

Day 6 : Danang - Bana hills with golden bridge - Overnight in Hoi An

Head out to explore Da Nang, a city renowned for its iconic bridges, including the Golden Bridge, Dragon Bridge, and Han River Bridge. Start your day by visiting Ba Na Hills, a popular tourist spot featuring a fantasy park, stunning landmarks, and Guinness record-holding cable cars.

Take a scenic cable car ride to Ba Na Hills Station. Visit the Vong Nguyet hills, Linh Ung Pagoda with its 27-meter-long Buddha statue, and the Old French Villas. Continue your cable car journey up to the majestic Nui Chua Mountain, the highest point of Ba Na Hills. Here, visit Nginh Phong Top, Le Nim Villas, and Orchid Garden.

A funicular train ride uphill will bring you to Debay Ancient Wine Cellar, an old French cellar, and Le Jardin D’amour, also known as the Ba Na Love Flower Garden. Next, walk on the Golden Bridge and enjoy a bird’s-eye view of Da Nang city.

Indulge in local delicacies during lunchtime, then explore the Fantasy Park. In the afternoon, return to Da Nang for some souvenir shopping at the Central Specialties Super Market.

Afterward, head to Hoi An, an hour's drive from Da Nang. Check in at your hotel and rent a bicycle to explore the beautiful streets of Hoi An. At night, visit the banks of the Thu Bon River, where traditional Vietnamese boats, or Sampans, meander past the city. Enjoy the local cuisine and admire the charming architecture.

Know more about Hoi An!

Day 7 : Coconut forest - Danang - Flight to Ho Chi Minh

Start your day with a drive to Cam Thanh Village for an adventurous basket boat ride around the coconut forests. Known for its vast and picturesque palm-coconut plantations, this village is home to a variety of crabs, shrimp, and fish.

Immerse yourself in the local fishermen’s lifestyle: partake in a fun basket boat race with some music, and receive natural ornaments made from coconut leaves. Get to know the locals, try your hand at casting a net, and learn how to paddle traditional basket boats.

Later, head to Da Nang airport for your flight to Ho Chi Minh City. Upon arrival, check in at your hotel. Spend the evening exploring the city on a “Hop On Hop Off” bus tour, which offers a glimpse of ancient ornate buildings alongside modern skyscrapers. Highlights include Ho Chi Minh’s war ruins, French architecture, and traditional local markets. Cap off the night by experiencing the vibrant nightlife, making for an unforgettable evening.

Know more about Ho Chi Minh City!

Day 8 : Cu Chi Tunnels & Mekong Tour

Begin your day with a tour to the Cu Chi Tunnels, a world-renowned tunnel network used by soldiers during the Vietnam War. As you crawl through the narrow alleys, you'll get a glimpse into the lives of Vietnamese soldiers. For an added thrill, try your hand at shooting real AK-47s and machine guns.

After a hearty lunch, leave for the Mekong Delta Tour. Start by crossing the Rach Mieu Bridge, the third-largest cable-stayed bridge in the Mekong Delta. Take a boat ride along the Mekong River to visit one of the four sacred islets: Dragon, Unicorn, Tortoise, and Phoenix.

Visit a local coconut candy manufacturer to learn about the production process and sample the treats yourself. Then, enjoy a leisurely stroll through a local orchard garden, where you can taste tropical fruits and listen to folk music. Stop by bee farms to savor the taste of honey tea.

By evening, return to your hotel in Ho Chi Minh City to enjoy a relaxing evening.

Know more about Ho Chi Minh City!

Day 9 : Departure

On your last day, take some time for leisure activities and last-minute shopping. Visit local malls for some retail therapy, or explore the charming cafes and bookstores around the city. Before heading to the Ho Chi Minh airport for your return flight, buy a few souvenirs to always remember your wonderful journey through this beautiful country.

Conclusion

In the above itinerary, I've included some of the most popular tourist destinations and experiences that can be conveniently covered within 9 days, ideal for those looking for a comprehensive glimpse of Vietnam's highlights. Exploring the entire country, brimming with remarkable places, could easily take months. However, this 9-day tour plan offers a taste of many incredible experiences.

If you have the flexibility to extend your stay, I highly recommend checking out my 16-day and 23-day tour guides. These longer itineraries provide opportunities to discover lesser-known gems and tailor your trip according to your preferences, allowing for even more adventures and unforgettable memories.