Highlights of Vietnam Tour

Vietnam is a country that calls to travelers with its vibrant cities, lush landscapes, and mouthwatering cuisine. This 12-day guided tour, offered by LVP Travel, promises an immersive experience that hits all the major highlights—from bustling Hanoi to the tranquil waters of Ha Long Bay, from the historic streets of Hoi An to the energetic pulse of Ho Chi Minh City. The tour scores a perfect 5.0 out of 5 based on recent reviews, and it’s clear why: it blends carefully curated sightseeing with authentic local interactions and top-notch guides.

What we particularly love about this experience is the thoughtful balance between guided tours and free time. Plus, the detailed itinerary focusing on iconic sites like Trang An, Bai Dinh Pagoda, and the Golden Bridge offers real value for your money. One thing to consider is that it’s a fairly fast-paced tour, so it’s best suited for travelers who enjoy a full schedule of sightseeing without too much downtime. If you’re eager to explore Vietnam’s highlights with a knowledgeable guide, this tour is a fantastic choice.

Key Points

• Comprehensive itinerary covering major highlights from Hanoi to Ho Chi Minh City.
• Expert guides like Lau, Annie, Tim, and Jenny receive high praise for their friendliness and knowledge.
• Authentic experiences such as street food tours, cooking classes, and local market visits.
• Good value considering all included transport, accommodations, tickets, and some meals.
• Flexible free time in Hanoi and Ho Chi Minh City to explore independently.
• Well-organized logistics with smooth transfers and varied activities.

An In-depth Look at the Highlights of This Vietnam Tour

Starting in Hanoi: A City Full of Contrasts

Your journey begins at Noi Bai International Airport, where a private driver will whisk you to your hotel. After settling in, you get your first taste of Hanoi’s vibrant street life with an evening street food tour. This isn’t just about eating—it’s about diving into the heart of Hanoi’s local culture. The tour explores the bustling old quarter, where narrow alleyways are bursting with vendors selling everything from pho to banh mi, influenced by French, Chinese, and Vietnamese flavors.

A reviewer shared how the street food tour offered a “wonderful way to see Hanoi’s local food scene,” highlighting how these street stalls are woven into everyday life. Expect to sample authentic Vietnamese dishes in a lively atmosphere, often with guides sharing stories behind each dish which enhances the culinary experience. Later, a cyclo tour allows you to glide through the historic streets, taking in ancient buildings, temples, and the shimmering Hoan Kiem Lake at night—an absolutely mesmerizing scene.

Exploring Ninh Binh and Trang An

From Hanoi, the tour heads south to Ninh Binh, about 120 km away. This region is often called “Ha Long Bay on land” thanks to its towering limestone karsts and emerald waters. Visiting Dinh and Le temples, you’ll get a glimpse into Vietnam’s past as former capitals of the country—a nice touch for history buffs.

The highlight here is the boat trip at Trang An, a UNESCO World Heritage Site. Travelers can expect to glide through caves and between limestone peaks, with scenery described as deeply picturesque. One reviewer noted how the boat ride “showed the stunning landscape of deep turquoise waters surrounded by mountains,” which is exactly what you’ll encounter.

Before that, a stop at Bai Dinh Pagoda offers a sprawling complex of Buddhist statues and the largest bronze Buddha statue in Vietnam. The pagoda is not just a spiritual site but also an architectural marvel, with hundreds of statues creating a peaceful, reverent atmosphere. The tour combines cultural insight with scenic beauty, giving travelers a well-rounded experience.

Cruising Ha Long Bay & Cat Ba Island

No visit to Vietnam is complete without a cruise through Ha Long Bay’s dramatic limestone formations. You’ll hop aboard a traditional cruise boat, starting at the serene Tra Bau area of Lan Hạ Bay, a less crowded alternative to the main bay. Expect breathtaking sunsets, opportunities for kayaking, and a cooking class onboard that lets you try your hand at Vietnamese cuisine. An onboard dinner offers a cozy, romantic setting with local dishes.

The cruise includes visits to caves, grottoes, and even a bamboo boat trip—each activity revealing the bay’s natural grandeur. One reviewer mentioned enjoying “the sunset over the Gulf of Tonkin” from the boat’s deck, which captures the peaceful yet awe-inspiring vibe of Ha Long Bay.

The following day includes exploring the famous Lan Ha Bay, with an early morning Tai Chi session and brunch as you cruise back to the port. The overall experience balances scenic beauty with moments of relaxation and culture.

Moving to Da Nang and Hoi An

After returning to Hanoi and catching a flight to Da Nang (included in the tour), you’re taken directly to your hotel for some rest. The next day, a highlight is the visit to Sun World Ba Na Hills, where you’ll experience the world’s most modern cable car—a highlight for many travelers. The ride offers spectacular views of the mountains and forests below.

Once at the top, the tour explores the French Village, with its charming architecture, and the iconic Golden Bridge, held aloft by enormous stone hands—an Instagram favorite for good reason. The park also features the Debay Wine Cellar, the Linh Ung Pagoda, and the fantasy-themed park filled with rides and attractions, including the 90+ free games and the Jurassic Park area.

Reviewers praised the well-organized day, the good value of included tickets and meals, and especially the fantastic views from the cable car. Many also appreciated the diversity of activities—ranging from cultural sightseeing to adventure rides.

Hoi An & Cham Island

In Hoi An, you’ll enjoy a mix of history and relaxation. A guided tour includes exploring the UNESCO-listed Ancient Town, with its beautifully preserved buildings, lantern-lit streets, and local markets. You might also take a cooking class, which is highly recommended by past travelers—they loved learning how to make traditional dishes and then savoring their own creations.

A day trip to Cham Island offers snorkeling and swimming in clear waters, a peaceful escape from the town’s bustle. Reviewers mentioned the beautiful landscape and the chance to sample fresh seafood, making it an ideal day for beach lovers.

The Dynamic South: Ho Chi Minh City and the Mekong Delta

Flying to Ho Chi Minh City, you’ll get a taste of Vietnam’s vibrant economic hub. The city’s energy is palpable, and the tour includes a visit to the Cu Chi Tunnels—an extensive network of underground tunnels used during the war. Travelers can expect to see reconstructed chambers, trapdoors, and even crawl through parts of the tunnels, which many found both fascinating and humbling.

The Mekong Delta day trip is a highlight for many. Expect boat rides along peaceful canals, visits to fruit orchards, and a chance to see traditional waterway life firsthand. One reviewer described the boat ride as “serene,” with seasonal fruit and folk music creating a memorable atmosphere. Visiting a local family business, you’ll get a glimpse of rural life, taste coconut candies, and enjoy a peaceful lunch amid lush greenery.

Final Stops and Departure

The tour concludes with a visit to Cu Chi Tunnels and then a transfer back to the airport. Throughout, the logistics are smooth, with private transfers ensuring comfort and efficiency. The tour includes flights from Da Nang to Ho Chi Minh City, which helps keep the schedule rolling without long land transfers.

Why This Tour Works for Travelers

This tour is especially good for those wanting a comprehensive, well-organized introduction to Vietnam. The inclusion of key attractions, cultural experiences like cooking classes and street food tours, and scenic cruises make it well-rounded. The guides are consistently praised—like Lau, Annie, Tim, and Jenny—who are friendly, knowledgeable, and eager to share insights about their country.

The price point of $1,220 per person covers a lot: accommodations, transportation, most meals, and entrance tickets. While it’s not a budget tour, the value comes from the quality and diversity of experiences packed into just over a week. Plus, the option for group discounts and private pickups adds convenience, especially if you’re traveling with friends or family.

However, the pace is quite full, with early mornings and packed days—so it’s best suited for travelers who enjoy a busy schedule and are comfortable with a structured itinerary. The tour’s focus on popular sights means you’ll hit the must-see spots, but it might leave little room for spontaneous discovery.

Final Thoughts: Is This Tour Right for You?

If you want a thorough introduction to Vietnam that balances culture, scenic beauty, and adventure, this tour offers excellent value. Expect to visit bustling cities, historic sites, and natural wonders—all with the guidance of passionate locals. It’s perfect for first-timers who want an organized, worry-free way to see the country’s highlights while still having some free time to explore on your own.

Travelers who appreciate authentic local cuisine, stunning landscapes, and well-curated experiences will find this itinerary aligns perfectly with their interests. The guides’ attentiveness and the smooth logistics ensure a comfortable journey, making it suitable even for those newer to guided tours.

For those on a tighter schedule or looking for a more relaxed pace, some days might feel quite packed. But if you’re ready to soak up Vietnam’s vibrant culture and breathtaking scenery in just 12 days, this tour delivers a memorable, value-packed adventure.

FAQ: Your Practical Questions Answered

Can I customize this tour?
The itinerary appears fixed, with set activities and destinations. However, some reviews mention flexible arrangements, especially in terms of meals and free time.

Are airport transfers included?
Yes, the tour features private door-to-door pickup and drop-off services at airports and hotels, making travel seamless.

What is the group size?
This experience is designed for small groups, with a maximum of 15 travelers, enhancing a personalized experience.

Are meals included in the price?
Most meals are included, such as breakfasts, some lunches, and dinners. Specific details mention two dinners and six lunches as part of the package.

What are some recommended activities?
Highlights include street food tours in Hanoi, boat trips in Trang An, cruises in Ha Long Bay, and cultural visits like the Bai Dinh Pagoda.

Is this tour suitable for families?
While not explicitly stated, the pace and activities seem family-friendly, especially with options like boat rides, sightseeing, and cultural tours.

Do I need to prepare anything in advance?
Booking is typically made 18 days ahead, so plan for your flights and personal travel documents early. No special preparation is mentioned beyond packing for varied weather.

This 12-day Highlights of Vietnam tour offers a comprehensive, authentic, and well-organized way to experience the diverse beauty of Vietnam. Whether you’re a first-timer eager to see Hanoi’s old quarter, relax on Ha Long Bay, explore Hoi An’s historic streets, or feel the pulse of Ho Chi Minh City, this trip provides memorable experiences with knowledgeable guides and thoughtful logistics.