11 Days Tour Discover Vietnam | See the best of Vietnam | 2025-26

Traveling through Vietnam in just over a week might seem ambitious, but with this 11-day tour from Authentic Adventures, you’ll get a taste of everything that makes the country fascinating. From bustling cities and historic sites to serene beaches and scenic mountains, this trip promises a well-organized, value-packed experience designed for those eager to see the highlights without the stress of planning every detail.

What we love most about this tour is the care taken to include authentic experiences and key landmarks—like the Cu Chi Tunnels, the stunning Ba Na Hills, and the UNESCO-listed Hoi An. Plus, the excellent guides and smooth logistics make it accessible even for first-time visitors. On the flip side, with such a packed schedule, some might find the pace a bit brisk, especially if they want to soak in every moment. This tour appeals most to travelers who want a rundown of Vietnam with a good mix of culture, history, and nature—all at a reasonable price.

Key Points

• All-Inclusive Value: Covers accommodation, meals, transportation, and entry fees, reducing hassle and unexpected costs.
• Expert Guides: Well-reviewed guides who are knowledgeable and attentive, enhancing the experience.
• Diverse Destinations: From Ho Chi Minh City to Hanoi, including the Mekong Delta, Da Nang, and Ha Long Bay.
• Flexible Day Options: Some evenings free for personal exploration or relaxing.
• Group Size: Limited to 12 travelers, ensuring more personalized attention.
• Cost-Effective: At $1,149 per person, it offers good value considering the number of destinations and inclusions.

A Complete, Authentic Taste of Vietnam’s Best

This 11-day journey is thoughtfully designed to give you an authentic slice of Vietnam, weaving together iconic sites with local experiences. It’s perfect for those who want to see the country’s highlights without the hassle of multiple bookings or complicated logistics. The tour’s competitive price of around $1,149 brings a lot to the table, especially considering it includes flights, accommodations, and most meals.

Day-by-Day Breakdown: What to Expect

First Impressions: Ho Chi Minh City

Your adventure begins in Ho Chi Minh City, Vietnam’s bustling southern hub. After a smooth airport pickup, you’ll settle into a centrally located hotel that balances modern comforts with friendly hospitality. In the afternoon, you have the option to explore on your own or join a hop-on-hop-off city tour—a fantastic way to get your bearings and see key spots like the War Remnants Museum or the Notre-Dame Cathedral.

Evening activities are flexible: you might wander through lively streets filled with street food stalls, busy markets, or vibrant nightspots. Several reviewers mentioned enjoying the city by night, with some opting for scooter or jeep tours, adding a sense of adventure and local flavor.

The Mekong Delta: A Riverside Escape

Day 2 takes you out of the city to the Mekong Delta, often called the “Rice Bowl” of Vietnam. The 2.5-hour drive to Cai Be introduces you to scenic countryside views—lush rice paddies, water buffalo, and small villages. The Mekong experience is an authentic highlight, with activities like visiting floating markets, local cottage industries (think coconut candy and rice paper), and enjoying a Vietnamese cooking demonstration.

One reviewer appreciated the intimate feel of this part of the trip, noting the cycling around the village as “a fantastic way to experience local life.” The chance to taste fresh fruit and listen to traditional music adds depth to this cultural encounter.

Exploring War History at Cu Chi Tunnels

Day 3 brings a poignant visit to the Cu Chi Tunnels, about 70 km from Ho Chi Minh City. These tunnels, part of Vietnam’s resistance during the war, are now a historical site where you can walk through underground passages and imagine life during wartime. Visitors can even try cooking with wartime-style stoves or shoot an AK-47 if they’re feeling brave, as some reviews mention.

The experience offers a visceral understanding of Vietnam’s resilience, with guides like Tran providing insight into the tunnels’ importance. The tour lasts about two hours, making it a meaningful but not overly exhausting stop.

Moving North: Da Nang and Ba Na Hills

After flying from Ho Chi Minh to Da Nang, Day 4 is dedicated to some of the most breathtaking scenery in central Vietnam. The highlight is the Ba Na Hills, where you’ll ride a cable car that holds multiple world records. At the top, the Golden Bridge, with its massive stone hands, creates perfect photo opportunities—some reviewers say it looks like it’s floating among the clouds.

Following that, the French Village offers a taste of European architecture, complete with churches and streets reminiscent of a quaint town. The day ends with a visit to Fantasy Park, where thrill rides and games cater to all ages, making for a fun mix of culture and entertainment.

The Coastal and Historical Gems of Hue and Hoi An

Day 5 combines a scenic drive along the Hai Van Pass, renowned for its stunning views, with visits to Khai Dinh Tomb, notable for its unique fusion of Eastern and Western design. The UNESCO World Heritage site, Hue’s Imperial City, offers a glimpse into Vietnam’s royal past, with palaces, gates, and royal urns.

In the late afternoon, you can wander the ancient streets of Hoi An. The town, with its lantern-lit streets and heritage architecture, remains a favorite among travelers. The tour includes a boat trip to Cham Island, where you can enjoy seafood and explore local markets—an authentic taste of coastal life.

The Natural Beauty of Lan Ha Bay and Ha Long

Days 8 and 9 are dedicated to cruising Lan Ha Bay and Ha Long, some of Vietnam’s most famous natural wonders. The cruises are highly praised, with reviewers loving the variety of activities—kayaking, swimming, and relaxing in jacuzzi pools while watching the sunset.

Early mornings include Tai Chi and breakfast with bay views, providing peaceful moments before the day’s adventures. The cruise ships are well-organized, with room service and comfortable cabins, ensuring a relaxing yet adventurous experience.

Cultural Stops in Ninh Binh

Day 10 takes you inland to Ninh Binh, known as the “Halong Bay on land,” thanks to its limestone karsts and serene landscapes. The visit to Bai Dinh Pagoda and Trang An Grottoes offers a mix of spiritual and natural beauty. Expect boat trips through caves and climbing to panoramic viewpoints, with some reviewers mentioning the nearly 500 steps at Mua Cave as a highlight.

Wrapping Up in Hanoi

Your final day is flexible—most travelers enjoy exploring Hanoi’s Old Quarter or simply relaxing before their departure. The city by night is lively, with food stalls, street performers, and historic sites that shine after dark.

Why This Tour Offers Great Value

This tour balances cost and experience effectively. For $1,149, you gain access to flights, accommodations, most meals, and countless memorable moments. Travelers often mention the professionalism of guides and drivers, with reviews praising guides like Tran and Han for their friendliness and knowledge.

The all-inclusive nature means no hidden costs or surprises, which is a huge plus. The small group size—capped at 12—adds an intimate touch, allowing for more personalized attention and flexibility.

What Could Be Better?

While the itinerary is packed, some might find the pace a bit hurried. If you prefer lingering at sites or want extra time for photos or shopping, you might feel rushed. Plus, the long travel days—such as the flight from Ho Chi Minh to Da Nang—require planning, but they’re well coordinated to maximize sightseeing time.

Who Is This Tour Best For?

This trip is ideal for first-time visitors to Vietnam who want a rundown without the hassle of planning. It suits travelers who appreciate structured schedules, professional guides, and a mix of cultural, historical, and natural sights. Families, solo travelers, or friends groups will enjoy the varied activities and cultural immersions. If you’re comfortable with a fairly full itinerary and want to experience Vietnam’s diversity in one trip, this is a solid choice.

Final Thoughts

This 11-day Vietnam tour offers a compelling blend of history, natural beauty, and vibrant city life—all at a very reasonable price. The inclusion of flights, accommodations, most meals, and expert guides make it a convenient and trustworthy option for those eager to explore the country’s highlights.

While it moves quickly, it provides enough variety and depth to leave you with a real sense of Vietnam’s spirit. The tours are well-organized, the guides praised for their knowledge, and the experiences genuinely memorable. Whether you’re a history buff, a nature lover, or a foodie, this trip covers the bases.

This tour is best for travelers seeking a hassle-free, value-packed introduction to Vietnam—perfect for first-timers or anyone wanting a broad, authentic snapshot of this beautiful country.

FAQs

Is this tour suitable for solo travelers?
Absolutely. The small group size and well-organized itinerary make it suitable for solo travelers who want companionship and guided support while exploring Vietnam.

Are flights between cities included?
Yes, the tour includes domestic flights from Ho Chi Minh to Da Nang and from Da Nang to Hanoi, simplifying logistics and saving time.

What is the accommodation like?
The tour covers all accommodation in private rooms, with reviews indicating a good balance of comfort and local charm at the hotels.

Are meals included?
Most meals are included, including breakfast, lunch, and dinner—highlighting the opportunity to taste local cuisine regularly throughout the trip.

How active is the itinerary?
It’s quite full, with activities like cycling, walking through tunnels, boat trips, and climbing at Mua Cave. Be prepared for some physical activity but also plenty of rest.

Can I customize or extend the tour?
While the itinerary is fixed, you can probably arrange extensions or special requests with Authentic Adventures directly, especially if booking in advance.

What happens in case of bad weather?
The tour relies on good weather, especially for outdoor activities and cruises. If canceled due to weather, you’ll be offered a different date or a full refund.

To sum it up, this 11-day Vietnam tour delivers an impressive, well-rounded experience that balances iconic sights with local touches. It’s a fantastic choice for travelers wanting to see a lot without the hassle of organizing individual components—and at a price that offers strong value for money.