9D8N VIETNAM DISCOVERY: From Ho Chi Minh to Peaceful Sapa, Hoi An, Ninh Binh & Ha Long Bay
Join with us on an unforgettable 9-day Vietnam tour featuring the country's most iconic destinations. Blending breathtaking scenery, authentic culture, and local cuisine, this Vietnam tour package is perfect for first-time travelers seeking an enriching and seamless Vietnam experience.
TOUR OVER VIEW
Embark on the ultimate 9-day Vietnam tour and discover the country's most celebrated destinations in one seamless itinerary. From the vibrant streets of Ho Chi Minh to the wonderful scenery of Sapa, the magnificent view of Hoi An and peaceful atmosphere of Ninh Binh, Ha Long Bay. This journey blends culture, nature, adventure, and authentic local life — perfect for travelers who want more than just the usual highlights.
QUICK INFORMATION
Duration: 9 Days / 8 Nights
Departure: Ho Chi Minh - Sapa - Hoi An - Ninh Binh - Ha Long Bay
Transportation: Car / Motorbike / Easy Rider
Each season offers its own unique beauty, from blooming spring flowers (Jan–Mar), lush green summer landscapes (Apr–Jul), peaceful autumn scenery (Aug–Oct), to misty winter mountains (Nov–Dec).
TOUR HIGHLIGht
Experience Hoi An's countryside, traditional fishing culture, lantern-lit Ancient Town, and local cuisine.
Explore Ba Na Hills, ride the Golden Bridge, and enjoy panoramic views from the mountain.
Discover Ninh Binh's ancient capital, Trang An waterways, and Mua Cave viewpoint.
Explore Ha Long Bay's caves, lagoons, islands, and peaceful coastal scenery.
Discover Sapa's mountain landscapes, Cat Cat Village, and Moana Sapa.
DETAILED ITINERARY
DAY 1 – ARRIVAL IN HO CHI MINH CITY – RELAX AFTER FLIGHT
Day 1 Land in HCMC – Relax After Flight
WELCOME TO VIETNAM
After landing at Tan Son Nhat International Airport, complete your visa and luggage procedures before meeting our representative at the pickup point. Transfer to your hotel in Ho Chi Minh City.
After a smooth check-in process, with rooms available from 14:00 onwards, settle into your comfortable room and take some time to relax after your flight.
In the afternoon, explore some of Ho Chi Minh City's most famous historical and cultural landmarks at your own pace:
* The Reunification Palace
* War Remnants Museum
* Notre Dame Cathedral
* The Old Post Office
* Jade Emperor Pagoda
* Ben Thanh Market
Enjoy some shopping at Ben Thanh Market or Saigon Square, with many shops open until around 21:00.
In the evening, visit Bui Vien Walking Street and experience the lively atmosphere with local pubs, bars, and street food.
Dinner at your own arrangement.
Overnight in Ho Chi Minh City.
DAY 2 – HO CHI MINH CITY → DA NANG – COCONUT RIVER – HOI AN ANCIENT TOWN
Day 2 HCMC Flight to Da Nang – Coconut River – Hoi An Ancient Town – Release Lantern
Morning: Our driver will take you to the airport for your flight to Da Nang.
Upon arrival in Da Nang, our driver will pick you up and transfer you to your hotel. Check-in is available from around 14:00.
Enjoy some free time to relax by the beach before beginning the afternoon experience.
At around 12:00–12:15, your van and tour guide will pick you up from your hotel in the Da Nang area.
Start your adventure at Cam Thanh Coconut Village. Experience the local fishing culture and learn traditional fishing techniques while discovering how to row unique Vietnamese bamboo basket boats through the peaceful coconut palm waterways.
During the experience, enjoy a hands-on activity with local fishermen and discover an authentic side of Vietnamese rural life.
At around 14:30, continue to Hoi An Ancient Town.
Visit Phuc Kien Chinese Assembly Hall, a colorful complex featuring traditional gates, dragon statues, and elaborate rooftops. Learn about ancestor worship and the cultural traditions of the local community.
Explore well-preserved historic houses such as Phung Hung Ancient House or Tan Ky Ancient House, which reflect Hoi An's long history as a trading port.
Visit the Japanese Covered Bridge, an iconic landmark connecting different parts of the Ancient Town. Admire its traditional architecture and learn about its historical and cultural significance.
Continue exploring Hoi An's traditional handicraft shops, art galleries, small laneways, and local neighborhoods.
As evening arrives, enjoy the charming atmosphere of Hoi An Ancient Town and take part in the traditional lantern-release experience when available.
Enjoy dinner with Hoi An specialties.
Overnight in Hoi An.
DAY 3 – BA NA HILLS – GOLDEN BRIDGE – FRENCH VILLAGE – FLIGHT TO HANOI
Day 3 Ba Na Hills – Golden Bridge – French Village – Flight to Hanoi
07:30–08:00: After breakfast, check out and leave your luggage in the hotel lobby.
Our Minivan and tour guide will pick you up at your hotel lobby and transfer you to Ba Na Hills Cable Car.
Spend your morning at Ba Na Hills, home to the famous Golden Bridge and one of Southeast Asia's most impressive cable car systems. Enjoy breathtaking views of Da Nang's coastal city and surrounding mountains.
Explore the French Village, with its European-style architecture and atmosphere inspired by historic French towns.
Continue exploring Ba Na Hills' attractions and entertainment areas, which may include Fantasy Park, the French Village, Alpine Coaster, Debay Wine Cellar, Linh Ung Pagoda, and other attractions depending on operating conditions.
Enjoy lunch at a local restaurant or buffet restaurant at Ba Na Hills.
Continue exploring Ba Na Hills in the afternoon before taking the cable car back down the mountain.
At around 15:00, return to Da Nang city.
At around 16:45–17:45, our driver will pick you up and transfer you to the airport for your evening flight to Hanoi.
Upon arrival in Hanoi, transfer to your hotel and enjoy some free time.
Overnight in Hanoi.
DAY 4 – NINH BINH FULL DAY – HOA LU – TRANG AN – HANG MUA
Day 4 Ninh Binh Full Day – Hoa Lu – Trang An – Hang Mua
07:30–08:00: Your tour guide and driver will pick you up from your hotel in Hanoi Old Quarter for the journey to Ninh Binh.
At around 09:15, travel along the expressway for approximately 1.5–2 hours before reaching Ninh Binh. Enjoy the countryside scenery along the way.
At around 10:30, arrive at Hoa Lu, the ancient capital of Vietnam from the 10th to 11th centuries. Visit the temples of King Dinh and King Le and learn more about Vietnamese history and the early dynastic period.
At around 11:45, enjoy a buffet lunch featuring local Ninh Binh specialties at a local restaurant. Vegetarian options are also available.
At around 13:00, continue to Trang An, a UNESCO World Heritage Site. Board a traditional boat and enjoy a scenic journey through limestone karsts, peaceful waterways, caves, and valleys.
At around 15:00, take some time to enjoy the riverside scenery before continuing to Mua Cave.
At around 15:45, visit Mua Cave, also known as the “Great Wall of China” in Vietnam. Climb approximately 500 steps to the mountain summit and enjoy panoramic views over the rice fields, winding river, and limestone mountains.
At around 17:00, depart Ninh Binh and return to Hanoi.
At around 19:00–19:30, arrive back at your hotel in Hanoi Old Quarter.
Overnight in Hanoi.
DAY 5 – HA LONG BAY 2 DAYS 1 NIGHT – OVERNIGHT IN CRUISE
Day 5 Ha Long Bay 2 Days 1 Night – Overnight in Cruise
08:00 AM: Pick up from your hotel in Hanoi Old Quarter or Hanoi Opera House. You can leave your luggage in the hotel lobby and take a small bag with you for the cruise.
11:30 AM–12:00 PM: Arrive at Tuan Chau Harbor, check in at the waiting room, and prepare for boarding.
12:00–12:30 PM: Get on the tender boat to the cruise and enjoy a welcome drink while meeting the captain and crew. Receive a brief introduction about the cruise and safety guidelines before completing check-in procedures.
13:00–14:15: Enjoy a Vietnamese seafood and vegetarian lunch while cruising through the magnificent landscapes of Ha Long Bay and admiring the fascinating limestone formations rising from the emerald waters.
14:30 PM: Choose to relax on the sundeck or explore the bay through activities such as kayaking or swimming, depending on the cruise itinerary and weather conditions.
15:30–16:00: Return to the cruise and participate in onboard activities. Enjoy the panoramic scenery of Ha Long Bay while relaxing on the sundeck.
19:00 PM: Enjoy a delicious local food experience followed by a wonderful onboard evening surrounded by Ha Long Bay's peaceful scenery.
21:00 PM: Relax onboard and enjoy the peaceful atmosphere of Ha Long Bay at night.
Overnight on the cruise.
DAY 6 – HA LONG BAY → HANOI – TRANSFER TO SAPA
Day 6 Ha Long Back to Hanoi – Transfer to Sapa
06:00 AM: Wake up early and enjoy the peaceful morning atmosphere onboard.
06:15 AM: Enjoy a morning cruise through the bay and admire the surrounding limestone karsts. Tea, coffee, and light breakfast are served while you enjoy the scenery.
07:00 AM: Visit a local cave or lagoon area by bamboo boat or kayak. Enjoy the peaceful surroundings and explore the natural beauty of Ha Long Bay depending on the cruise itinerary.
09:30 AM: Return to the cruise, relax, and complete your cabin check-out procedures.
10:00 AM: Check out from your private cabin and enjoy a final cruise through Ha Long Bay. Complete the check-out procedure and enjoy lunch at the restaurant while the cruise returns toward the harbor.
11:00 AM: Get on the tender boat back to Tuan Chau Harbor.
11:30 AM–12:00 PM: Transfer by car from Tuan Chau Harbor back to Hanoi.
15:00–15:30: Arrive at your hotel in Hanoi.
21:00: Transfer to Hanoi bus station and check in for the VIP cabin sleeper bus departing around 22:00 for Sapa.
Overnight on the VIP sleeper bus.
DAY 7 – CAT CAT VILLAGE – MOANA SAPA – ALPINE COASTER
Day 7 Cat Cat Village – Moana Sapa – Alpine Coaster
Arrive in Sapa around 2:00–3:00 AM and rest in a private room before starting the journey.
Start the day with a hearty breakfast at your hotel or local restaurant.
At around 08:00, your guide will take you on a trek to Cat Cat Village, a picturesque H'Mong village nestled in the surrounding mountains. Walk through the village, admire cascading waterfalls, and explore traditional homes while discovering the local way of life.
Have lunch at a local restaurant.
Next, visit Moana Sapa, a scenic check-in spot featuring attractions such as Heaven's Gate, an Infinity Lake, a golden hand sculpture, and a distinctive swing. Capture memorable photographs with the Hoang Lien Son mountain range and Fansipan Peak as your backdrop.
Continue your afternoon experience at the Alpine Coaster, enjoying a thrilling ride down the mountainside and taking in the surrounding scenery.
At around 17:30, return to Sapa town to unwind at your hotel. Enjoy dinner at your own arrangement and spend the evening at leisure.
Explore Sapa's local night market, stroll through the town, or simply relax after a full day of mountain experiences.
Overnight in Sapa.
DAY 8 – GLASS BRIDGE – TRANSFER BACK TO HANOI
Day 8 Glass Bridge – Transfer Back to Hanoi
Morning: After breakfast, check out and leave your luggage at the hotel lobby.
Start the day with a visit to the Glass Bridge, also known as Rong May Glass Bridge, located at an elevation of approximately 2,200 meters above sea level. The bridge offers panoramic views over Sapa's surrounding mountains and valleys.
For travelers seeking a more adventurous experience, the area may also offer additional activities such as ziplining or bungee jumping, depending on availability and weather conditions.
Have lunch at a local restaurant before continuing the journey.
Take the transfer to Sapa bus station and check in for the VIP cabin sleeper bus departing around 15:00.
After approximately 6 hours of travel, arrive in Hanoi and transfer to your hotel.
Check in and relax for the evening.
Overnight in Hanoi.
DAY 9 – DEPARTURE FROM VIETNAM
Day 9 Flight – Leave Vietnam
Enjoy your final morning in Hanoi and take some time to relax or explore the surrounding area depending on your flight schedule.
Have breakfast at the hotel and prepare your luggage for departure.
Our representative will pick you up from the hotel and transfer you to Noi Bai International Airport according to your flight schedule.
Allow sufficient time for airport check-in, baggage procedures, and departure formalities before your flight.
Your 9-day journey through Ho Chi Minh City, Hoi An, Ba Na Hills, Hanoi, Ninh Binh, Ha Long Bay, and Sapa comes to an end.
Finished 9 days in Vietnam!
INCLUDED
•Car transfer with Good A/C
•Hotel with daily breakfast, Good A/C – private room
•Experienced local English-speaking guide
•Meals as stated in the itinerary (B: Breakfast; L: Lunch; D: Dinner)
•All sightseeing tickets
•24/7 hotline support guaranteed
EXCLUDED
•Incoming and outcoming flight – domestic flight
•Beverage, Personal expenses, tips and gratuities
•Travel insurance
•Early check-in and Late check-out (If not mentioned)
•Visa stamping fee (Vietnam: 35$/person)
•Optional ticket in day 8
•Other services not mentioned above
•Tipping fee for private guide & driver
WHAT TO BRING?
Essential Items
• Passport
• Comfortable shoes
• Sunglasses
• Sunscreen
• Personal toiletries
• Small backpack
For Mountain Weather
• Warm jacket
• Raincoat
• Long pants
• Extra socks
• Gloves during winter season
Optional
• Camera / Drone
• Power bank
• Motion sickness medicine
• Personal snacks
BEFORE YOU GO
•The itinerary might subject to change due to weather or tide condition with our prior notice
•Schedule subject to change upon weather and operation conditions
•Promotion might apply, inclusions and exclusions might change – you will be informed of changes upon booking.
•All prices are in United States Dollars ($) unless otherwise indicated. Please note that prices quoted are subject to change. Price changes may occur by reason of matters outside our control which increase the cost of the services which we arrange on your behalf. Such factors include adverse currency fluctuations, fuel costs, taxes and accommodation increases.
Authentic Experiences
We create meaningful journeys that connect travelers with the authentic beauty of Vietnam, from local culture and hidden gems to everyday life beyond the tourist crowds.
Local Connection
Our experiences are designed together with local communities, guides, and hosts to ensure every journey feels personal, welcoming, and deeply connected to Vietnamese culture.
Carefully Curated
Every itinerary is thoughtfully crafted to balance culture, nature, comfort, and adventure, giving you unforgettable memories throughout Vietnam.
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