Trip grading - EASY to MODERATE Suitable for travellers with an average level of fitness and mobility. Fly between major destinations, and take two overnight trains.

What's included:  – 12 nights hotel accommodation and 2 overnight trains (soft sleeper four-berth shared cabin), flights as specified, all road transport by air-conditioned vehicles, all sightseeing as specified (including entrance fees), Western tour leader based on a minimum of seven travellers, local English-speaking guides throughout, arrival and departure transfers, breakfast daily, four lunches and one dinner.

Tour Leader: Travel Indochina tour leader based on a minimum of 7 people.

Maximum group size: 15

Itinerary

Your Journey starts Saigon, ends Hanoi

Days 1–3 - Saigon & Mekong Delta Arrive in Saigon get to know the sites and sounds of Vietnam’s most exciting destination. A walking tour past some of the iconic sites in District One, such as the Opera House and Hotel de Ville, will help you get acquainted with Ho Chi Minh City. Take a day-trip out to the lush waterways of the Mekong Delta, where you will experience the ‘rice basket’ of this fertile region, and travel to the Cu Chi Tunnels and learn about the tenacity and resilience of the Vietnamese.
Hotel: Sheraton Saigon Hotel & Towers

Days 4–5 - Hoi An Enjoy the architecture, local delicacies and friendly locals that make Hoi An a true Vietnam highlight. Visit her tailors and galleries, relax at the beach or take part in a cooking demonstration. An ambient boat trip down the Thu Bon River will bring you to the heart of the UNESCO World Heritage-listed Ancient Town. Early risers should pack plenty of film; you will be mesmerised by the sights and sounds of this fishing town’s early morning market as boats arrive from the sea.
Hotel: Life Heritage Resort

Days 6–7 - Hue Drive north to Vietnam’s former imperial capital and wander the last empire’s Forbidden City, the Citadel, as well as tombs of the Nguyen Emperors and the banks of the Perfume River. The journey itself is part of the appeal; travel over Hai Van Pass for spectacular views of the mountains, the sea and lush rice paddies.
Hotel: La Residence

Days 8–9 - Hanoi & Halong Bay Fly to Hanoi and take a cyclo ride through the Old Quarter, the best way to get to know the ancient laneways and local people. Discover the infamous ‘Hanoi Hilton’ and a performance of traditional water puppetry. Spend a magical afternoon cruising Halong Bay, where you will enjoy a seafood lunch and a swim (weather permitting).
Hotel: Sofitel Metropole

Days10–13 - Sapa Take the overnight train to Sapa and spend a few days in this charming town and the unsurpassed surrounding landscapes. The market in Sapa is world-famous for its diversity; pore over unique handicrafts and hilltribe fabrics and jewellery. Your ambient ecolodge offers earth-friendly accommodation with stunning mountain valleys at your doorstep. Return to Hanoi by train.
Hotel: Victoria Sapa & Topas Ecolodge

Days 14–15 - Hanoi Back in the capital, spend some time in historic Ba Dinh Square, home to Ho Chi Minh’s Mausoleum and Museum, his former home, and the One Pillar Pagoda before some free time for last-minute shopping or exploration. Depart on day 15.
Hotel: Sofitel Metropole