19-Day Tours | Explore the Essential and Highlights in Vietnam

Planning a 19-day journey through Vietnam can feel overwhelming with so many sights, sounds, and flavors vying for your attention. This tour, organized by Authentic Adventures, promises a well-rounded experience that covers Vietnam’s top destinations, from bustling Hanoi to tranquil Nha Trang and vibrant Ho Chi Minh City. With a competitive price of $1,989, it offers excellent value considering the extensive itinerary, all-inclusive package, and professional guides.

What we particularly love about this tour is the way it balances popular highlights with authentic local experiences—think peaceful boat rides through Tam Coc, energetic cooking classes on a cruise, and visits to lesser-trodden spots like Hoa Lu Ancient Capital. The team’s reputation for reliable, friendly service shines through in glowing reviews, and the fact that it’s suited for travelers of various ages and interests makes it a versatile option.

However, this is a full-on 19-day schedule—if you prefer a more relaxed pace or fewer destinations, you might find some days quite packed. Also, the group size is limited to 12, which keeps things intimate but means early booking is recommended during peak seasons.

This experience is best suited for travelers who want comprehensive coverage, enjoy guided tours, and are eager to explore Vietnam’s iconic sights and hidden gems. If your ideal trip combines culture, scenic landscapes, and hassle-free logistics, this tour could be your perfect fit.

Key Points

• All-Inclusive Value: Accommodation, meals, transportation, and entry fees are covered, making it a stress-free experience.
• Diverse Destinations: From Hanoi’s historic sites to the beaches of Nha Trang, and the bustling streets of Ho Chi Minh, this tour hits all the major highlights.
• Expert Guides: Reviews highlight knowledgeable, approachable guides like Tran and Harry, who go above and beyond to ensure a memorable experience.
• Authentic Experiences: Activities like cooking demonstrations, boat trips through Tam Coc, and visits to traditional villages bring Vietnam’s culture to life.
• Seamless Logistics: The tour’s organization is smooth, with reliable pickups, well-planned transfers, and flexible options for dietary needs.
• Excellent Value: Compared to standalone trips, the extensive itinerary packed with activities and included extras makes this a smart choice for budget-conscious travelers.

A Deep Dive into the 19-Day Vietnam Tour

The First Impressions: Comfort and Convenience

From the moment your trip begins, the attention to detail is evident. Airport pickups are smooth, and your first night in Hanoi is relaxed with a warm welcome. The accommodation selections in Hanoi, Da Nang, and Ho Chi Minh are praised for blending comfort with authentic local charm. Travelers mention that the guides, especially Tran, are both friendly and highly knowledgeable—ready to answer questions and offer insights at every step.

The group size maxes out at 12, which helps create a cozy, personal atmosphere. Reviewers like those mentioning “very friendly guides” and “always there if we needed assistance” underscore just how reliable and approachable the team is. Whether it’s navigating traffic or suggesting off-the-beaten-path eateries, the guides truly enhance the experience.

Unpacking the Itinerary: What You’ll See and Do

Days 1-5: Hanoi & Ha Long Bay

Your journey kicks off in Hanoi with visits to iconic sites like Tran Quoc Pagoda, Ho Chi Minh Complex, and the Temple of Literature, giving you a window into Vietnam’s intellectual and spiritual roots. The ethnology museum adds a fascinating look at Vietnam’s diverse cultures—an underrated gem praised by visitors for its outdoor displays and traditional house models.

The highlight here is undoubtedly the three-night cruise in Ha Long Bay. The cruise boats are well-reviewed, with guests loving the delicious seafood, sunset parties, and the chance to kayak or swim in Lan Ha Bay. The early morning Tai Chi sessions and cooking demonstrations add authentic local flavor, and the staff’s friendliness is repeatedly noted. The cruise’s itinerary allows for relaxing exploration of Bai Tu Long and Van Boi areas, and the outdoor activities like kayaking and visits to Viet Hai village make the experience lively and immersive.

Days 6-7: Ninh Binh & Tam Coc

Transitioning to Ninh Binh, the visits to Hoa Lu Ancient Capital and the Tam Coc boat trip showcase Vietnam’s stunning landscape of limestone cliffs and lush rice paddies. The boat ride through caves and along rivers is described as “like a land-based Ha Long Bay,” which is quite a compliment. Reviewers highlight the friendly local guides and the chance to cycle through villages, making this segment both scenic and authentic.

Days 8-12: Central Vietnam – Hue, Hoi An, and Bana Hills

Traveling south, the group visits Hue’s Imperial City, a UNESCO site filled with grand palaces and historic relics, and Thien Mu Pagoda, where the serene atmosphere leaves a lasting impression. The Khai Dinh Tomb impresses with its blend of Vietnamese and Western architecture, often praised as a beautiful and interesting site.

In Hoi An, the Old Town walk reveals lantern-lit streets, historic houses, and the famous Japanese Covered Bridge. The local markets and traditional architecture offer insights into Vietnam’s trading past. The visit to Bana Hills, with its record-breaking cable cars and French-inspired architecture, is a fun and scenic highlight, especially the Nghinh Phong top and fantasy park with its indoor rides.

Travelers mention the well-organized logistics and friendly guides making these transitions smooth, even with multiple flights involved.

Days 13-18: Coastal and Southern Highlights

The tour continues to Nha Trang, where many guests mention the beautiful beaches and optional activities like snorkeling or spa visits. The tour’s flexibility allows you to relax or explore on your own.

Moving to Ho Chi Minh City, the highlights include the Independence Palace, War Remnants Museum, and the Notre Dame Cathedral, which travelers find awe-inspiring. The Cu Chi Tunnels tour is often described as both fascinating and eye-opening, with visitors appreciating the guides’ storytelling.

Finally, the Mekong Delta adventure takes you to My Tho, Ben Tre, and Can Tho, with visits to floating markets and river villages. Reviewers say the boat rides and local workshops are some of the most memorable moments, offering genuine insights into rural life.

Practical Considerations: What Travelers Should Know

Transportation and Timing: The tour uses air-conditioned vehicles, and flights between major regions are included, saving time and avoiding long bus rides. The itinerary is packed with early mornings, but reviews suggest that guides help keep the pace manageable.

Group Size & Personalization: With a maximum of 12 travelers, the group feels intimate, allowing for personalized attention. Guides like Tran and Harry are known for their warm, approachable style and attention to detail, which elevates the experience.

Meals and Dietary Needs: All meals are included, with many reviews praising the delicious local foods—from seafood in Ha Long to regional specialties in Hue. Vegetarian options are always available, and guides are accommodating about dietary restrictions.

Cost and Value: At around $1,989, the package covers accommodation, most meals, entrance fees, and flights. Reviewers consistently mention that the trip offers excellent value given the extensive sightseeing, activities, and comfort.

The Bottom Line: Who is This Tour Best For?

This 19-day Vietnam tour is ideal for travelers who want a comprehensive, guided experience that covers Vietnam’s most renowned sights and lesser-known gems. It’s particularly suited for those who enjoy organized tours but also appreciate moments of spontaneity, like exploring local markets or trying a cooking class.

If you’re looking for reliable guides, well-planned logistics, and a mix of culture, scenery, and cuisine, this tour will deliver. It’s perfect for first-timers eager to see Vietnam’s highlights or seasoned travelers wanting a seamless way to experience the country without the hassle of planning every detail.

However, if you prefer a more relaxed or flexible pace, or if you seek independent travel experiences, this might feel a bit packed. Still, for those who thrive on a full schedule packed with authentic activities, this trip offers a fantastic introduction to Vietnam.

Frequently Asked Questions

Is this tour suitable for all ages?
Yes, the tour is designed to accommodate most travelers, with a maximum group size of 12. The schedule is active but not physically demanding for most adults.

Are vegetarian or special dietary needs accommodated?
Absolutely. The tour includes meals with vegetarian options, and guides are happy to cater to other dietary restrictions if notified in advance.

What level of fitness is required?
You should be comfortable with some walking, stairs, and outdoor activities like cycling in Tam Coc or walking through Hue’s Imperial City. The itinerary includes early mornings and some boat rides.

Are flights between destinations included?
Yes, the package covers domestic flights, which helps save time and makes the journey more comfortable.

Can I customize the experience?
While this is a structured tour, reviews reflect that guides and staff are flexible and attentive to guests’ needs, making it easy to enjoy personalized moments.

What is the refund policy?
You can cancel up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund. Cancellations made less than 24 hours before departure aren’t refundable, so plan accordingly.

Final Thoughts

This 19-day tour of Vietnam by Authentic Adventures offers a comprehensive, well-organized way to see the country’s highlights and hidden treasures. From historic sites and scenic boat rides to lively markets and cultural experiences, the trip covers all the bases. The expert guides and reliable logistics make it an excellent choice for travelers who value comfort, authenticity, and value.

Ideal for first-timers or those wanting a full immersion in Vietnam’s diverse landscape and culture, this tour delivers a memorable experience that’s as informative as it is fun. If you’re after a trip that combines scenic beauty, cultural depth, and seamless organization, this 19-day adventure could be your perfect Vietnam journey.