Vietnam 12 Days

12 Days Unveiling the Gems of Vietnam with Family

  • Visit the main sites in Central and Southern Vietnam
  • Explore the Mekong Delta, a half-land, half-water world in the southern tip of the country
  • Discover the history of Hue, the last imperial capital of Vietnam and its peaceful countryside
  • Relax on the beautiful beaches of Hoi An at the end of the trip
  • Private tour with tailor-made services
12 Days Unveiling the Gems of Vietnam with Family
ITINERARY

Program description

Expand all
DAY 1 HO CHI MINH - ARRIVAL

Welcome to Ho Chi Minh City (formerly Saigon)! Upon arrival at the airport, your guide will be there to greet you. Afterward, we'll transfer you to your hotel (rooms available from 2 p.m.), giving you some free time to relax or explore the city at your leisure.

DAY 2 HO CHI MINH - CITY TOUR AND CU CHI

After enjoying breakfast, begin a city tour of the vibrant city center, known as "Colonial Saigon":

  • Notre Dame Cathedral and Central Post Office: Marvel at the iconic landmarks designed by Gustave Eiffel.
  • Ho Chi Minh City People's Committee Headquarters: Visit the former Central Municipal Hall, one of the city's most beautiful colonial buildings.
  • Museum of Traditional Medicine in Vietnam: Explore a fascinating collection of documents, objects, and instruments related to local medicine.

In the afternoon, journey to the Cu Chi underground tunnels on the city's outskirts. Descend underground to discover a labyrinthine world: tunnels stretching 200 km long, 70 cm wide, and 90 cm high, featuring meeting rooms, kitchens, hospitals, and more. Return to Ho Chi Minh City in the late afternoon.

Night at the hotel.

DAY 3 HO CHI MINH - MEKONG DELTA (BEN TRE - GIONG TROM ≈ 3 HOURS TRIP)

Today, we depart for the Mekong Delta, a unique region blending land and water in the country's southern tip.

Arrive in Ben Tre, a bustling town nestled in the heart of the northern branches of the river. Enjoy a boat ride along the rivers to reach Mo Cay, a charming rural area still off the beaten path, renowned for its coconut trade and production of coconut-based products.

Explore the green island, adorned with coconut plantations, by bike or Xe loi (motorized rickshaw). Wander along shady paths beneath coconut trees, stopping at farms to witness the making of coconut sweets and brooms.

Continue your journey with a tranquil ride in a small rowing boat through streams lined with water palms, immersing yourself in the daily life of the delta. Visit Mr. Van's traditional house and savor local specialties prepared by his wife, including coconut jam, honey, and pollen tea.

In the afternoon, drive to Giong Trom through coconut plantations and a network of canals connected to the mighty Mekong River. Check into a charming lodge nestled on the banks of the Ham Luong River, where you can enjoy fishing with the hosts and unwind in a serene environment, perhaps catching a stunning sunset.

In the evening, join in the preparation of dinner with your hosts, learning to make Banh Xeo, the Vietnamese crepe or pancake.

Night at the lodge.

DAY 4 MEKONG DELTA (GIONG TROM - TRA VINH - CAN THO)

Bike ride in the heart of coconut country on small shady trails to the island of Oc. Oc Island is the largest island in the Ham Luong River. It is home to sumptuous landscapes, with fertile fruit gardens, rows of green coconuts and the peaceful life of the southern inhabitants. This walk will allow you to discover the daily life of the local inhabitants, their craft activities.

Visit a small local market and a coconut shell factory.
In the afternoon, drive to Tra Vinh crossing the great arms of the Mekong: Ham Luong and Co Chien, a route that offers beautiful green and rural panoramas of the delta.

Arrival in Tra Vinh, a small and pretty city located downstream of the Mekong like a peninsula (this city is largely populated by Khmer-Cambodians and is still very untouristy).

Visit the Khmer Cultural Museum and Ang Pagoda (or Angkor Ajabory Pagoda), an ancient pagoda of Khmer architecture surrounded by hundreds of ancient trees. Built in the 10th century and restored in 1842, the oldest pagoda in Trà Vinh has a unique architecture, harmoniously combining the typical decoration of the Khmer in Vietnam and that of Angkor in Cambodia.

In the late afternoon, continue to Can Tho, the capital of the delta, located on the right bank of the southern arm of the Mekong.
Night in hotel.

DAY 5 MEKONG DELTA - HO CHI MINH - HUE (3.5 HOURS ROUTE + 1 HOUR FLIGHT)

Wake up early and greet your hosts before transferring to Can Tho, the capital of the Mekong Delta, located on the right bank of the Mekong River's southern branch.
Upon arrival, board a boat for a cruise down the Mekong River. Visit the Cai Rang floating market, spectacular with its colors and its gathering of many boats loaded with fruits, vegetables, and all other types of products. Discover the very original "river trade" of the inhabitants of the Mekong Delta region.
Disembark for a visit to the An Binh land market located opposite Cai Rang, an opportunity to make an interesting comparison between the floating market and the land market.
Return to Ho Chi Minh City, fly to Hue, the former port city of the Central.
Overnight in Hue.

DAY 6 HUE DAY - CITY TOUR

After breakfast, depart for a tour of the city of Hue (Hue is the last imperial capital of Vietnam 1802-1945):

  • The Imperial City, residence and workplace of the 13 Nguyen kings for 143 years: the South Gate, the Forbidden Purple Citadel, the Peace Palace, the Royal Reading Pavilion, the temples of the Nguyen dynasty, the traditional theater, etc.
  • The mausoleum of Gia Long, founder of the Nguyen dynasty, one of the two first founders of the "special" Franco-Vietnamese relationship (the other French priest: Mons. Pigneau de Béhaine) or the mausoleum of Minh Mang, the emperor very known to have fathered 142 children with 43 concubines.
  • Village of Phu Mong with garden houses: a building block of Hue's imperial identity.
  • The Thien Mu pagoda, the most beautiful and visited pagoda in Hue or the very peaceful Tu Hieu pagoda, where there are tombs of eunuchs of the Nguyen dynasty. Depending on the time, there is the possibility of seeing the prayer session of the monks.
  • The Dong Ba market, the largest and oldest in Hue, where local specialties are sold: conical hats, tunic dresses, etc.

Overnight in hotel in Hue.

DAY 7 HUE AND ITS COUNTRYSIDE

Full-day excursion to explore the villages and pagodas around Hue.
Board a boat for a cruise down the tranquil Perfume River. Make a stop in the village of Thuy Bieu, specialized in the cultivation of pomelos recognized for their quality. Bicycle ride through the village of Thuy Bieu, on paths shaded by thousands of pomelos, fruit trees ... the opportunity to soak up the serene and green nature. Stay with a peasant family, meet the hosts. Participation in the preparation of lunch, tasting of dishes cooked by yourself.
In the afternoon, transfer by car to the village of Sinh, known for making prints. According to local practices, the prints of the Sinh village are used as offerings to put on altars, in daily rites before being burned by souls, saints ... Walk around the village, stop at Mr. Phuoc, an artist of 60 years of profession, discovery of the stages of printmaking and initiation to traditional techniques.
Continue the visit to the village of Thanh Tien, specialized in the manufacture of paper flowers. This 400-year-old profession has been passed down from generation to generation to this day. Here, all kinds of flowers (lotus, rose, lotus, sunflower ...) are reproduced in paper, bamboo and other local materials. It is really difficult to distinguish the true from the false. Visit a factory to understand the work of highly skilled craftsmen.
Return to Hue, the rest of the day free to relax.
Overnight in hotel.

DAY 8 HUE - HOI AN (150 KM ≈ 3 Hours Drive)

Depart by road to Hoi An, a small ancient town located 150 km south of Hue. The unusual route crosses the rugged coast of the eastern sea, beautiful bays of turquoise waters and the Hai Van Pass, offering breathtaking views.
Arrival in Hoi An around noon, check in to hotel.

In the afternoon, walking tour to discover the old town of Hoi An - "the most charming city in Vietnam". Visit its main areas of interest:

  • The Fujinan shrine dedicated to the goddess protecting fishermen and sailors, with its ornate architecture and colorful lanterns.
  • The Phuc Thanh pagoda, the oldest in Hoi An (1454), featuring a serene courtyard and intricate Buddhist statues.
  • The Japanese Covered Bridge, built in 1593, connecting the Chinese and Japanese districts and embellished with colorful wooden carvings.
  • A tailor's workshop, where you can witness the silk production process from raising silkworms to weaving finished garments.
  • Wander through the old town's narrow streets, lined with traditional wooden houses, charming cafes, and vibrant silk and lantern shops. Enjoy the relaxed atmosphere and soak in the town's rich history and culture.

In the evening, Hoi An comes alive with the gentle glow of thousands of lanterns strung across the streets and waterways. Take a boat ride on the Thu Bon River for a magical experience amidst the illuminated town.

DAY 9 HOI AN AND ITS SURROUNDINGS

Today, embark on a cycling adventure to discover the peaceful and verdant countryside surrounding Hoi An.
After breakfast, cycle towards the fishing village of Van Lang and the Bay Mau coconut forest. This region, crisscrossed by canals, mangroves, and water palms, offers a glimpse into local life and traditional activities.
Pass through rice paddies, cornfields, and vegetable gardens, stopping at friendly villages, artisan workshops, and boat-building yards.
Arrive at Van Lang village, where you'll be greeted by friendly boatmen and embark on a basket boat ride along the coconut palm-lined rivers. Admire the picturesque landscapes and learn about traditional shrimp fishing techniques.
Disembark and enjoy a delicious lunch prepared by a local family.
In the afternoon, continue cycling to Tra Que village, renowned for its organic vegetable cultivation. Stroll through the fields, meet the farmers, and participate in hands-on activities like fertilizing the soil and planting herbs.
Bid farewell to the hospitable villagers and cycle back to your hotel in Hoi An.
Spend the rest of the evening at your leisure, perhaps enjoying a rooftop dinner with panoramic views of the town.

DAY 10&11 HOI AN AND ITS BEACHES

Dedicate these two days to relaxation and fun at the beautiful and uncrowded beaches near Hoi An - Cua Dai and An Bang.
Soak up the sun, swim in the turquoise waters, and build sandcastles with your family.
Take leisurely walks along the beach, collect seashells, and enjoy the tranquility of the surroundings.
If you're feeling adventurous, try your hand at water sports like surfing, kayaking, or stand-up paddleboarding.
In the evenings, explore the beachfront restaurants and cafes, savoring fresh seafood and local delicacies.
You can also rent bicycles and explore the nearby countryside, discovering hidden temples, quaint villages, and rice paddies.

DAY 12 HOI AN - HO CHI MINH - DEPARTURE

Enjoy your last breakfast in Hoi An before checking out of your hotel.
Depending on your flight schedule, you may have some free time to do some last-minute shopping or explore the town further.
Transfer to Da Nang International Airport for your flight back to Ho Chi Minh City, and onward to your home country.
This 12-day family trip to Vietnam offers a perfect blend of cultural immersion, historical exploration, scenic beauty, and relaxation. From the bustling Mekong Delta to the charming ancient town of Hoi An and the pristine beaches, this trip has something for everyone in the family.

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:

Tailor-made enquiry

Please leave us a quote request, and our travel advisor will provide you with more detailed information and a quote.
Your travel plan
Number of participants
Your message
Your contacts
Name *
Nationality
Email *
Phone number
Add-on activities:
FAQ

Frequently asked questions

1. Is 10 days enough to see the highlights of Vietnam?

Yes, 10 days is enough to see many of the highlights of Vietnam. With our well-planned itinerary, you can experience the vibrant cities, historic sites, stunning landscapes, and rich culture. Focusing on key regions such as the north, central, and south can provide a comprehensive overview of the country's diverse attractions.

2. What are some family-friendly activities to include in a Vietnam 10-day itinerary?

A family-friendly Vietnam 10-day itinerary can include activities such as:

  • Exploring Hanoi’s Old Quarter: Enjoy a cyclo ride and visit kid-friendly museums like the Vietnam Museum of Ethnology.
  • Cruising Halong Bay: A boat tour with kayaking, cave exploration, and beach visits.
  • Visiting Hoi An: Participate in lantern-making workshops and explore the ancient town.
  • Ho Chi Minh City: Visit the Saigon Zoo and Botanical Gardens, and take a day trip to the Cu Chi Tunnels. These activities ensure fun and educational experiences for all ages.
3. When is the deadline to book the trip?

We don't impose a deadline, but it's best that you book your trips, as well as the circuit itself, as soon as possible. In fact, the earlier we make reservations, the better the services will be, knowing that the most appreciated providers often lack availability. Therefore, our clients often book their trip 4 to 6 months in advance.

4. Can I choose the date of the trip?

Yes, you can set a period with the weeks that suits you best or allows you to buy the cheapest flight tickets. Then we will tailor our program for you. Keep in mind that being an agency specialized in tailor-made trips, we know how to design a tour according to your availability.

 

5. When is the best time to visit Vietnam?

Due to the terrain and geographical location, the climate in Vietnam is quite diverse from north to south.

When one area is wet, cold, or rainy, another may be sunny and dry. In our experience, the best time to travel to Vietnam is from October to April. More specifically, the best months are from October to November and mid-March to May, when the weather is pleasant, with little rainfall, conducive to a variety of tourist activities.

In July and August it is a bit hot (30-35 degrees), but Ha Long Bay is usually sunny. You'll also have the chance to see the northern mountains adorned with green or yellow rice fields and terraces that stretch as far as the eye can see. Meanwhile, in the south it's the rainy season, but the rains don't last all day, just an hour or two. The remaining days are sunny.

6. Do I need a visa to travel to Vietnam? If not, how can I get one?

If you are a citizen of the UK, France, Germany, Spain, Italy, Switzerland, Poland, the Czech Republic, Russia, Japan, South Korea, Norway, Sweden, Finland, Denmark, or Belarus, you can enter Vietnam visa-free for up to 45 days. Switzerland, Poland, and the Czech Republic have a special exemption from March 1 to December 31, 2025 for organized tours.

If you are from the US, Australia, Canada, or New Zealand, you must obtain a visa before arrival. The E-Visa (valid for up to 90 days) is the easiest option, available online in 3-5 days. Visa on Arrival (VOA) requires a pre-approval letter, or you can apply at a Vietnamese Embassy or Consulate.

To avoid issues, apply early, ensure your passport is valid for 6+ months, and have proof of onward travel. The E-Visa is recommended for convenience. Please contact us for visa assistance.

7. What type of transportation do you offer for our family?

Most of the transfers will be done by car, but we also offer various types of transportation during your family trip, such as cyclo-pousse, bicycles, rowboats, or boats. You can also choose to spend a night on a train, all of which will provide you and your children with diverse experiences.

8. What are the must-visit attractions for a family trip to Vietnam?

During your family trip to Vietnam, don't miss the essential destinations:

In the North: Explore Hanoi, the enchanting capital, immerse yourself in the beauty of Ninh Binh's terrestrial Halong Bay, and, most importantly, visit the wonderful Halong Bay with a memorable cruise. If time allows, experience the authenticity of the Northern mountains by embarking on hikes and staying with the locals, creating unforgettable memories for your children.

In the Central region: Dive into history by visiting Hue, the former imperial city, and discover Hoi An, a city with a myriad of activities.

In the South: Immerse yourself in the bustling atmosphere of Ho Chi Minh City and explore the magic of the Mekong Delta.

At the end of your journey, you can relax in a beach resort like Mui Ne or Nha Trang for a grand finale before your return.

9. What budget should I plan for a trip to Vietnam?

As an approximate guideline, the cost of a 2-week trip to Vietnam would be around 1450$ per person when traveling as a pair (excluding airfare). For a 3 or 4-week journey, please budget between 1900$ and 2500$ per person. If you're in a larger group (4 or 6 people), the trip will be more cost-effective. The price always varies depending on the duration and time of your stay, as well as your preferences (activities, services). Please leave us a quote request, and our travel advisor will provide you with more detailed information and a quote.

10. What is the most interesting region to visit in Vietnam?

Vietnam is divided into three major regions: the North, the Central, and the South. Each region has its distinctive features, and the choice of the region to visit will depend on your interests.

Among the three regions, the North has more interesting things to discover. It entices travelers with its rich natural beauty (stunning bays and rivers, impressive mountains and hills, winding mountain paths, lush valleys with beautiful terraced rice fields) and cultural heritage (numerous historical monuments, ancient temples and pagodas, craft villages, a large community of ethnic minorities with authentic villages and colorful weekly markets). Without time constraints, most of our clients spend a significant portion of their trip exploring this region.

11. How can I make payments on-site? Which currencies are accepted?

International cards such as Visa or Mastercard are widely accepted in hotels, shops, and restaurants. However, please note that Vietnamese banks may apply an additional commission of 3% to 4% for this type of payment.

You can also pay in euros or USD at some businesses in major cities (hotels, restaurants, etc.). However, for small expenses, it is more advantageous to have Vietnamese Dong (VND). You can easily exchange currency at banks, jewelry shops, or even at your hotel. You can also withdraw VND from ATMs.

12. When and how is the balance of the trip paid?

As for the balance payment, you can settle it in one of the following ways:

  • In cash upon your arrival. We accept US dollars and Euros (USD/EUR exchange rate calculated on the day of payment). However, we do not accept defaced or excessively old banknotes. We kindly ask you to obtain new bills from your bank to avoid any inconveniences during your trip.

  • By credit card upon your arrival at our office (using our credit card terminal). In this case, there is an additional fee of 3% for our bank if you pay with Visa or Mastercard and 4% for payments with Amex. Payment is made in the local currency.

  • By bank transfer: We request that you complete this transfer no later than 10 days before your departure. This is to ensure that the balance of your trip is credited to our account before the start of your journey

13. What are the payment terms?

To make the deposit payment, you have two options:

  • Bank transfer: Our account details are provided in the travel invoice.
  • Credit card (Visa, Mastercard, Amex) through our bank's secure website. This payment method includes insurance as part of the card services (cancellation insurance, medical coverage, repatriation, etc.). However, please note that you will incur additional fees for our bank with this option: 3% extra on the deposit if you pay with Visa or Mastercard, and 4% extra on the deposit if you pay with American Express. Payment is made in the local currency."
12
Have more questions? Contact us
TESTIMONIALS
What our customers say about us

Comments

No comments yet - be the first to comment!
Leave a comment
captcha Refresh
OTHER
More tour ideas
Contact us Get a free quote
Contact WhatsApp