Vietnam 14 Days

Vietnam Cultural Heritages: A 2-Week Itinerary for Seniors

  • Visit all UNESCO-listed cultural and natural heritages from North to South Vietnam: Halong Bay, Phong Nha Natural Park, The Imperial City of Hue, and Hoi An Ancient Town.
  • Discover street food in Hanoi and enjoy a royal dinner while wearing traditional attire in Hue.
  • Encounter locals through various meetings, including a night's stay in their homes.
  • Extend your journey to Cambodia to explore the magnificent temples of Angkor.
Vietnam Cultural Heritages: A 2-Week Itinerary for Seniors
ITINERARY

Program description

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DAY 1 HANOI - ARRIVAL

Arrive in Hanoi, the thousand-year-old capital located in the heart of northern Vietnam, warmly welcomed by the English-speaking guide from Kampá Tour at the airport. A comfortable transfer takes visitors to the centrally located hotel (rooms available from 2:00 p.m.), with the day's activities tailored to suit the arrival time.

Set out for the first exploration of the city center, marking the start of your 2-week itinerary in Vietnam, soaked in the charm of this ancient capital

  • King Ly Thai To Square, discovery of the thousand-year-old history of the Vietnamese capital.

Ly Thai To is the founder of the Ly dynasty (1009-1225). It was he who transferred the capital from Hoa Lu to Hanoi in 1010Lake of the Restored Sword with the temple of Mount Jade, the Turtle Islet, in the heart of Hanoi.

  • Explore the Hanoi Old Quarter with 36 corporation streets, where you can stroll through craft streets bearing the name of the goods that were produced and sold there. Don't forget to stop at Ma May Street and visit an old 'Tube' house, a characteristic feature of traditional Hanoi architecture.

This Old Quarter is located in the heart of Hanoi and is full of old houses, temples, bustling markets, artisan shops, and traditional restaurants. It is an emblematic place that testifies to the history and culture of the Vietnamese capital.

Discover the colonial heritage with French concessions: take a cycle rickshaw ride through the city to visit the Grand Théâtre, the Métropole hotel, the state bank, the Central Post Office…

End your day with a relaxing night at the hotel, marking the beginning of your Vietnam 2-week itinerary with Kampá Tour.

DAY 2 HANOI - CITY TOUR

A day dedicated to exploring Hanoi's most remarkable cultural sites and historical monuments:

Built 1000 years ago, this Confucian temple served as an institution where royal offspring and sons of mandarins received their education. It also hosted competitions for the country's most talented students, with the winners attaining the status of scholars and senior officials in Vietnamese feudal dynasties.

  • Visit Ba Dinh Square, the location of the former palace of the Indochina governor, the Ho Chi Minh Mausoleum, and his residence.
  • Explore the Ethnography Museum, home to a vast collection of 25,000 ancient and contemporary artifacts that provide insights into the history of local populations.
  • In the evening, enjoy a water puppet show – a distinctive feature of the Vietnamese culture.

Colorful wooden puppets are skillfully manipulated by the artists using rods and bamboo shafts underwater. It is a unique and captivating art form unique to the Northern Vietnamese tradition.

Night in Hanoi.

DAY 3 HANOI - NINH BINH (HALONG BAY ON LAND)

Departure for Ninh Binh – the land of limestone karsts, sugarloaf mountains, and rice fields flooded by rivers and lakes throughout the year.

Arrival in Ninh Xuan, visit to Mua Mountain. Climb a 486-step white stone staircase to the summit of this bell-shaped mountain, which offers a panoramic view of the Tam Coc region.

A limestone mountain located near the rivers and sugarloaf mountains of Tam Coc. In the past, it was renowned for its dance performances for the kings of the Tran Dynasty (13th-14th century).

Afterward, transfer to Tam Coc for a bike ride and leisurely exploration of this fabulous region.

Explore a vast landscape featuring sugarloaf-shaped rock formations, rice paddies, and rivers. Enjoy boat rides on the Ngo Dong River, winding through the sugarloaf peaks, allowing you to fully immerse yourself in the lush surrounding nature.

In the afternoon, enjoy a boat trip along the Ngo Dong River to explore the beauty of Tam Coc. This meandering river takes you through lush rice fields, past picturesque sugar loaf hills, and beneath the three enchanting caves nestled at the base of towering limestone peaks.

End your day with an overnight stay in Ninh Binh.

DAY 4 NINH BINH - HALONG BAY (3.5 HOURS DRIVE)

Departure for Halong – the most beautiful bay in Vietnam, one of the most magical landscapes in Asia. Boarding upon arrival aboard a traditional junk. Welcome by the crew then departure for a magnificent cruise on the bay. Visit Bai Tu Long (northern part of Halong Bay):

  • Admire the picturesque islands and islets with various shapes (sail, dog, rooster, incense, etc.).
  • Explore the splendid caves of Halong Bay, including Thien Canh Son, housing stalagmites and stalactites dating back thousands of years.
  • Continue the cruise to Cap La, where you can enjoy a kayak ride and swim in the sublime waters of the bay (weather permitting).
  • In the late afternoon, relax on the upper deck of the junk.

Lunch and dinner on board the junk.

Enjoy a free evening for personal rest and relaxation, which can include card games or night fishing.

Spend the night on board.

DAY 5 HALONG BAY - HANOI - NIGHT TRAIN TO PHONG NHA (3.5 HOURS DRIVE + 1 NIGHT TRAIN)

Get up at dawn to enjoy a moment of unique splendor: the first rays of sun emerging from the thousands of sugar loaves in the bay.

Explore a floating village, observe local fishermen, and learn about cage fish farming.

Continue your cruise to discover the captivating obscure corners of Halong Bay.

Enjoy lunch onboard before disembarking and returning to Hanoi. Along the way, visit But Thap Pagoda, one of Vietnam's oldest.

In the afternoon, board the night train bound for Phong Nha.

Note: Private cruises on traditional junk boats are available upon request.

DAY 6 PHONG NHA - HUE (200 KM ~ 4.5 HOURS)

Arrival in the morning at Dong Hoi train station, transfer by road to Phong Nha-Ke Bang National Park, a UNESCO Natural World Heritage site. Upon arrival, take a boat ride along its underground river, one of the longest in the world!

Explore the magnificent caves. And then, let's take a brief walk through the limestone mountain of Ke Bang.

In the afternoon, continue the journey to Hue - the former imperial capital in the central region of the country.

Take your leisure time at a hotel.

DAY 7 HUE - CITY TOUR

Today will be dedicated to discovering Hue, the Vietnam's last imperial capital (1802 -1945):

  • The Imperial City, residence and workplace of the 13 Nguyen kings for 143 years;
  • Picturesque mausoleums of the Nguyen kings (Gia Long Mausoleum or Minh Mang Mausoleum).
  • Thien Mu Pagoda, the most beautiful and visited pagoda in Hue, or the very tranquil Tu Hieu Pagoda where the tombs of the Nguyen dynasty eunuchs are located.
  • Phu Mong Village with its garden houses - a constituent element of Hue's cultural identity.
  • The making of traditional conical hats of the country.

In the evening, enjoy a royal dinner in traditional attire, accompanied by music.
Overnight at a hotel.

DAY 8 HUE - HOI AN (150 KM ≈ 3.5 HOURS DRIVE)

Travel to Hoi An along the wild coast of the East Sea and the Hai Van Pass. Get a distant view of the beautiful turquoise water bays in Lang Co and Da Nang, the long beaches still less touristy: Thuan An and Lang Co; vast lagoons where various types of fish farms of the local population are found.

Several visits and stops are planned along the way:

Picturesque roadside cemeteries: called "ghost villages", these cemeteries contain sets of tombs, and castles of different cautiously carved Asian architectures.

DAY 9 HOI AN AND MY SON

Today, we will explore the two picturesque UNESCO cultural heritages in central Vietnam: The Old Town of Hoi An and the ancient sanctuary of My Son.

In the morning, stroll through the old town of Hoi An, known as "the most charming city in Vietnam", visit the must-see places:

  • The Fujian Assembly Hall dedicated to the patron goddess of fishermen and sailors; Phuc Thanh Pagoda, the oldest in Hoi An (1454); The Japanese Covered Bridge built in 1593, connecting the Chinese and Japanese quarters;
  • Ancient alleys, museums, and ancient wooden houses dating back hundreds of years.
  • Enroll in silk and lantern shops and workshops.
  • You will also have opportunities to buy deftly tailored clothes in silk.

In the afternoon, excursion to My Son, the ancient religious capital of the Cham kingdoms located about 30 kilometers from Hoi An. Upon arrival, visit remote towers and temples in the bottom of a small valley surrounded by mounds.
Return to Hoi An, relax with a leisurely boat ride on the Thu Bon River.
Then overnight at a hotel.

DAY 10 HOI AN - FREE DAY

Completely free day for your relaxation.

Why not take bike rides through the surrounding countryside where several traditional villages (vegetables, pottery, carpentry, etc.) are located or enjoy the nearby beaches?

DAY 11 HOI AN - HO CHI MINH (1 HOUR DRIVE + 1 HOUR FLIGHT)

Flight to Ho Chi Minh City, the southern capital (formerly Saigon). Visit upon arrival:

  • Ben Thanh Market – the symbol of the city.
  • Notre Dame Cathedral and Central Post Office (constructed according to Gustave Eiffel's plans).
  • The headquarters of the People's Committee of Ho Chi Minh City: the former Marie Centrale, the most beautiful colonial building in the city.
  • War Remnants Museum: Saigon's past during the American-Vietnam War (1954-1975).
  • Traditional Vietnamese Medicine Museum, discovery of traditional Vietnamese medicine, with over 3000 years of history.
  • Cho Lon (Chinatown) with the Thien Hau Temple.

Overnight at a hotel.

DAY 12 HO CHI MINH - MEKONG DELTA (BEN TRE - VINH LONG ≈ 3 HOURS ROUTE)

Commence on your journey to the Mekong Delta, a half-land, half-water world at the southern end of the country. Arrive in Ben Tre, a small town located in the middle of the northern arm of the Mekong:

  • Boat ride on the rivers and boat trip through various streams to soak yourself in the daily life of the delta.
  • Walk, bike, or Xe loi (motorbike) on the green islands, through coconut groves, rice fields. (Stop at coconut farms, observe coconut peeling, making of coconut milk sweets, handicrafts, etc.)
  • In the afternoon, transfer to Vinh Long, arrival on An Binh Island (Island of Peace) located in the middle of the Mekong, stay in a guesthouse located in a quiet corner of the gardens.
  • In the evening, participate in cooking dinner and then dine on the dishes you prepared.

Night at a local's house.

DAY 13 MEKONG DELTA - HO CHI MINH (180 KM ≈ 3.5 HOURS ROUTE)

Wake up early, bid farewell to the hosts and then continue the road to Can Tho, capital of the delta, located on the right bank of the southern arm of the Mekong. Upon arrival, board a boat for a trip along the Mekong. Visit the Cai Rang floating market in the style of an animated show that brings together many boats loaded with fruits, vegetables...

Disembark for a visit to the An Binh land market located opposite Cai Rang, the opportunity to make an interesting comparison between the floating and land markets.

Transfer to Phong Dien, visit an orchard, and then cycle through small villages along the So Dua River.

In the afternoon, return to Ho Chi Minh City, free time to rest. Night in hotel.

DAY 14 HO CHI MINH - DEPARTURE

Completely free day to rest and do your last-minute shopping. In the afternoon, transfer to the airport for your departure flight.

Thank you for choosing Kampá Tour! This Vietnam family trip has been designed as part of a comprehensive Vietnam 2-week itinerary, ensuring a memorable and enriching experience for you. It has been our pleasure to accompany you on this wonderful journey. Safe travels!

ACTIVITY

Optional activities

Tour price

--per person
This price, calculated for four people staying in standard hotels, may vary based on: • Travel period • Number of travelers • Chosen services
The price includes
  • Accommodation for the entire circuit, in hotels or with locals
  • Travel according to the program by private car
  • English-speaking guide for the visits mentioned in the program
  • All activities mentioned in the program, including entrance fees to tourist sites
  • Economy class domestic flights with airport taxes included
  • Meals mentioned in the program
  • Bottle of water during guided tours (2 x 500ml/traveler/day)
  • Government taxes currently in force (VAT, etc.)
The price excludes
  • International flights from your home
  • Visa fees, payable directly at the airport customs (see VISA)
  • Bank fees related to payment
  • Personal insurance
  • Personal beverages during meals: beer, Coca-Cola, fruit juice, etc.
  • Other meals not specified in the program
  • SIM card and mobile plans
  • Tips, personal expenses, and other services not mentioned in the "Our Included Services" section
SERVICE

Services for this trip

Your accommodation:
Your cruise on Halong Bay:

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FAQ

Frequently asked questions

1. How do I balance relaxation and adventure in a 2-week Vietnam itinerary?

Balancing relaxation and adventure in this itinerary involves planning a mix of activities that cater to both. Incorporate adventurous activities like trekking, biking, and water sports with relaxation time at beaches, spas, and scenic spots. Kampá Tour will ensure your itinerary has a good mix of high-energy days followed by more leisurely days to rest and recharge.

2. What are some unique experiences to include in this tour?

Unique experiences to include in this trip could be taking a street food tour, trying your hand at traditional crafts like pottery or silk weaving, enjoying a bike ride through the countryside, participating in a dawn Tai Chi session by a lake, or exploring Vietnam's coffee culture by visiting local cafes and trying different brews.

3. What are some tips for dealing with language barriers during this adventure in Vietnam?

To deal with language barriers in Vietnam in 2 weeks, learn a few basic Vietnamese phrases, use translation apps like Google Translate when your guide isn't around, carry a phrasebook, and be patient and polite. Many young Vietnamese people and those working in tourism speak some English, so don't hesitate to ask for help.

4. What are the dishes to try during the trip?

Vietnamese cuisine is incredibly diverse and delicious. With a gastronomic variety from North to South, you can find many tasty specialties. Each region has its own unique flavors and local dishes. Here is a list of dishes not to miss according to the region:

- In the North: During your stay in Hanoi, be sure to try Pho (beef rice noodle soup), Banh Mi (Vietnamese sandwich), Vietnamese spring rolls (Nem), and the legendary Egg Coffee, a Hanoi specialty.

- In the Central region: You must taste Bun Bo Hue, considered "one of the best soups in the world," and Cao Lau in Hoi An.

- In the South, the Mekong Delta region is renowned for its Vietnamese pancake, Banh Xeo.

5. What type of vehicle is scheduled for my trip?

We provide well-maintained, comfortable private cars with air conditioning for your trip. They are often equipped with a cooler, allowing you to have cold water bottles. The number of seats will depend on the number of participants. Here are our criteria:

Number of travelers 2-3 4-8 9-15  16-20
Car size Private 7-seater car 16-seater minibus 24-seater bus 35 or 45-seater bus

Our drivers are professional, cautious, and friendly. If you wish, they are ready to make stops along the way so you can better admire a beautiful landscape, take photos, or simply relax.

6. Is 2 weeks in Vietnam enough to experience the country's highlights?

Spending 2 weeks in Vietnam is an ideal amount of time to experience the country's diverse attractions and culture. During this period, you can explore the bustling streets of Hanoi and Ho Chi Minh City, marvel at the natural beauty of Halong Bay, and relax on the stunning beaches of Da Nang. Additionally, you can choose to focus your 2-week itinerary on either the northern, central, or southern regions of Vietnam to fully immerse yourself in the unique experiences each area offers. Whether it's the mountainous landscapes and ethnic cultures of the north, the historical sites of the central region, or the vibrant Mekong Delta in the south, two weeks provide ample opportunity to appreciate the essence of Vietnam.

7. Is it easy to find a restaurant for meals on our own? How much should I budget for a lunch/dinner?

Yes, you will have no trouble finding a restaurant. Our selected hotels are well-located, and you will have a wide range of choices for restaurants or local eateries. Your local guide will, of course, be available to recommend good places if needed. Please plan for around 7-10 dollars per person for a hearty meal.

8. What is the ideal duration for visiting Vietnam?

Two weeks is the ideal duration to explore all the must-see attractions of Vietnam without rushing. Such a duration will allow you to appreciate some of the most beautiful and iconic landscapes of the country, such as the legendary Halong Bay, the magnificent terraced rice fields inhabited by various ethnic minorities, or the lush Mekong Delta.

For those who like to delve deeper into a region such as the authentic Northern mountains, embark on a beach extension, or visit Cambodia, plan an additional 5 to 7 days.

9. Can I choose the travel date?

Yes, you can specify a timeframe with a date that suits you or allows you to acquire the most affordable flight tickets. We will then tailor our program accordingly. Please note that we are a specialized agency in custom travel, and we can certainly design a personalized itinerary based on your availability.

10. Do we travel from north to south or from south to north?

You can visit the country in either direction. The direction of the trip will primarily depend on your booked international flights, and we will adjust the itinerary to your preference. However, if you want to have a beach stay or an extension to Cambodia at the end of the trip, it would be better to choose the North-South direction, which is more convenient (the country's most beautiful beaches are located in the South).

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