Vietnam Travel By Rail 14 Days

Guest's own tickets for the arrival flight

At Hanoi's Noi Bai International Airport, your private guide and driver will meet you OUTSIDE the arrivals lounge and take you to your hotel downtown in about 45 minutes.

Please look for your tour guide, who will be holding a sign with your names.

(Even though every effort is made to have your room ready when you arrive, check-in isn't until 2:00 pm to follow the hotel policy, and your room might not be ready before then. Your tour guide will give you more information about your stay, and you can ask any questions you have.)

In the late afternoon, you go on a culinary adventure to the Old Quarter to try some street food. It's a great chance to try all those strange and interesting foods you've seen but didn't know what they were. A good thing about this short trip is the local beer. Find an empty seat and do what the locals do: pull up a stool and have a drink while watching the world go by at Bia Hoi Corner.

As you walk through the narrow streets of the old quarter, your guide will point out a variety of tasty noodles, bread, and snacks. Don't forget to bring a camera so you can take some beautiful pictures of the nightlife in the area. Downtown Vietnam is a great place not only to walk but also to eat street food. End the night with dessert from Hanoi’s best-known ice cream parlor before heading back to your hotel.

Overnight in Hanoi

Meals: street food tour

After breakfast, your guide will pick you up at the hotel and take you on your adventure.

You should start your tour at Ho Chi Minh's House, a plain wooden house in a serene setting where the legendary leader of the country lived and worked.

Continue to the Tran Quoc Pagoda, which was built in the sixth century and is Hanoi's oldest pagoda. It is located on a small island in West Lake. Take note of the numerous statues depicting lotus flowers and other Buddhist relics. Visit the Quan Thanh Temple, which dates back to the 11th century and features a wide courtyard with a giant banyan tree as well as a shrine dedicated to the most important deities in Taoism.

Visit the Temple of Literature in the afternoon. It was the site of Vietnam's first national university and was constructed in the late 11th century.

Back to the heart of Hanoi for a one-hour cyclo tour of the historic Old Quarter, which is renowned for its '36 streets of 36 products,' so-called because they are named after the first 36 artisan guilds that were established as early as the 13th century. Discover the interesting labyrinth of back lanes, fronted by narrow houses, which offers a wonderfully eclectic look into the life on the streets of Hanoi.

The day will come to a close with a rousing performance of water puppetry, an art form that is exclusive to the northern region of Vietnam and is supposed to have originated in the flooded rice fields of the Red River Delta. The presentation is set to music and features colorful wooden puppets that illustrate scenes of living in rural areas as well as events from national history.

In the late afternoon, we made our way back to the hotel.

Overnight in Hanoi

Meals: Breakfast, lunch

Day on the Bay – From Journey to Tranquility

After breakfast, set out on a scenic drive to Halong City, a journey of about two hours through the lush countryside of northern Vietnam. Upon arrival at the port, board a speedboat that will whisk you to your elegant cruise vessel — your floating home amid the breathtaking seascape of Halong Bay.

As the boat begins its voyage through a maze of limestone islands and emerald waters, enjoy a delicious lunch served on board. The view from the deck feels almost endless — countless islets rising dramatically from the sea, each with its own mysterious charm.

Spend the afternoon relaxing on the terrace deck or unwinding on your private balcony, soaking in the serene beauty of the bay. When you’re ready for a bit of adventure, hop into a kayak and paddle through hidden lagoons and tranquil coves — or simply enjoy a refreshing swim in the crystal-clear water.

As the day drifts into evening, return to the boat for a lively sunset party on the sundeck. Sip a cool drink, listen to soft music, and share stories with fellow travelers as the sun paints the limestone cliffs in shades of gold and crimson.

When night falls, anchor in a quiet bay and savor a sumptuous dinner prepared by the onboard chef. Afterwards, you may choose to try your hand at squid fishing, enjoy a nightcap under the stars, or simply relax and let the gentle rhythm of the water lull you to sleep.

Overnight on Halong Bay

Meals: Breakfast, lunch, and dinner.

With a light breakfast of crisp toast, flavorful eggs, and a cup of enticing coffee or tea, you can start your day off right. When you're finished, you'll be prepared to embark on the day's main adventure: exploring the Cave.

Because it is the most stunning and amazing cave in Halong Bay, it is a remarkable destination. Your knowledgeable tour guide will talk to you about everything you need to know.

After that, the boat will continue crashing into numerous islands and islets, giving you a good perspective of Halong Bay's breathtaking splendor. Vietnam is the only country in the world with such a site!

Do you want to attend a cooking class? One of the regional specialties, delectable deep-fried spring rolls, will be one of the recipes you learn to make from our chef. You must do it to really appreciate it!

Later, as you have a delicious lunch, we'll cruise back to the pier. After that, it will be time to disembark and bid the boat crew farewell.

We'll bus you to Hanoi. The bus will drop you off at your hotel.

Overnight in Hanoi

Meals: Breakfast, lunch

Morning

After breakfast and check-out, you are picked up by your guide and driver and driven to Ninh Binh's breathtaking mountain beauty. Ninh Binh, located just 2 hours from Hanoi, has remained relatively unspoiled, boasting breathtaking limestone karst landscapes and the Vietnamese abundance of underground streams and grottos.

You will experience the Trang An eco-tourism complex (the third Unesco World Heritage site on your itinerary) and its breathtaking karst landscapes, complete with hidden grottoes, towering peaks, and peaceful streams, upon arrival. Take a sampan through Trang An's amazing network of caves, arches, and grottos, including Sang Cave, Toi Cave, Ba Giot Cave, and Sinh Cave.

Afternoon

After lunch, you will continue your tour of Hoa Lu, the location of 11th-century Vietnam's Ancient Capital. As a result of millennia of erosion, the crumbling remains have been practically absorbed by the stunning surroundings, producing a magical aura that is certain to captivate your imagination.

Explore the history of the last two temples of the Dinh and Le Emperors upon arrival. The temples were restored in the 17th century, but it is thought that they were constructed on the ancient foundations of the 11th and 12th-century palaces.

Take a leisurely bike ride in the area, passing by limestone karsts and gorgeous landscapes as you ride down backroads. Arrive at Mua Cave Mountain, where a short climb leads to a breathtaking overlook with a breathtaking view of the Ngo Dong River below, which winds around the high mountains.

At the end of an exciting day in Ninh Binh, the driver will drop you off at a small hotel in Tam Coc, where you can rest a bit, shower, and go out for dinner.

Evening 

The driver will pick you up to take you to the train station. You board the train to Quang Binh and spend the night on the train.

Note

The overnight train will take about 8 hours to get you there. Even though the surroundings are basic, riding an overnight train in Vietnam is a fun experience. Sleeper trains usually have rooms with four. You will find a sheet, pillow, and blanket there, but some travelers like to bring their own. You might have to share with people of different genders or riders who aren't in the group, depending on how the group is set up. You can get snacks and drinks before the train leaves, but most trains have an eating car with simple food.

Overnight on the train

Meals: Breakfast, Lunch

Early morning

Upon arriving in Dong Hoi, your private guide and driver will meet you at the railway station exit and have a soft breakfast.

Morning – Paradise Cave Discovery
Begin your adventure with a scenic 1.6 km tram ride through the lush forest, followed by a short hike leading to the narrow entrance of the legendary Paradise Cave. As you ascend the 500 limestone steps, a breathtaking underground world gradually unfolds—one of the most magnificent natural wonders in Vietnam.

Inside, the cave stretches vast and high, with ceilings soaring up to 60 meters and chambers spanning 120 meters wide. The shimmering stalactites and stalagmites, illuminated by a soft system of white LED lights, create a truly mesmerizing scene. It’s no wonder this cave is often described as a palace beneath the earth.

Let your imagination roam as our expert guides share fascinating insights into the cave’s formation and hidden legends. Capture incredible photos and soak in the cool, tranquil atmosphere of this geological masterpiece. After two hours of exploration, return to the parking area and transfer to Phong Nha Town for lunch.

Enjoy a traditional Vietnamese lunch at a local restaurant featuring the freshest regional ingredients. From aromatic herbs to savory local specialties, every dish is prepared with care—offering both authentic flavors and vegetarian-friendly options.

Afternoon – Phong Nha Cave Adventure
Continue your journey with a leisurely dragon boat cruise along the poetic Son River. As you glide gently downstream, take in the peaceful river scenery—lush green hills, riverside villages, and local life unfolding on the banks.

Your boat soon reaches the entrance of Phong Nha Cave, where the mouth of the cave opens dramatically into the karst mountains. Inside, be enchanted by shimmering rock formations that glisten like diamonds under a flashlight. The intricate stone curtains, stalactites, and stalagmites form shapes that seem almost alive—each more spectacular the deeper you venture.

Listen as your guide reveals stories of how these caves were formed over millions of years, creating a subterranean landscape that feels straight out of a fairy tale. Explore hidden chambers, underground rivers, and sparkling rock formations that will leave you in awe of nature’s artistry.

After this unforgettable experience, your tour concludes around 4:30 PM – 4:45 PM, with a comfortable drop-off back at your hotel in Phong Nha Town.

Overnight in Phong Nha

Meals: light breakfast, Lunch

Morning

After breakfast, get a private car to Hue, the historic imperial city and UNESCO World Heritage site (about 3,5 hours). After checking in and relaxing at the hotel.

Afternoon

You will travel through Hue's Citadel and learn about the importance of this former Imperial capital and political center during the Nguyen Dynasty's reign from the nineteenth to twentieth centuries. Your guide will tell you stories about the complex of palaces, temples, apartments, gardens, and ponds encased within defended walls, surrounded by a moat, and planned according to ancient philosophies. The most significant area was in the middle, known as the Purple Forbidden City; this is where the emperor and his closest confidants resided and worked, though many of the structures were damaged during the war and rebuilt. The emperors' tombs are scattered along the Perfume River. Stop by Minh Mang Royal Tomb, the ultimate resting place of one of the Nguyen Dynasty's most ardent Confucians, whose reign represented the pinnacle of Nguyen dominance in the country. 

Evening

Hue is known for its Royal Cuisine. The Nguyen Emperors' banquets were renowned. Some feats were supposed to involve 300 unusual foods served in over a thousand bowls. Tonight, you'll go out for a Royal Banquet. Traditional Hue Imperial Court music will entertain you, and you will be fed a multi-course banquet by Imperial Court royal tradition. Each dish is beautifully made to represent the dragon, phoenix, and peacock—a unique experience.

Overnight in Hue

Meals: Breakfast and Dinner.

Morning

Begin your day with a peaceful cruise along the poetic Perfume River. This journey reveals the timeless charm and history of Hue, once the imperial capital of the Nguyen Dynasty in the 1800s. Your first stop is Thien Mu Pagoda, one of the city’s oldest and most iconic landmarks. Admire its seven graceful tiers, each symbolizing a different reincarnation of Buddha, and take in the serene beauty of its surrounding gardens, blooming flowers, and ornamental trees.

Continue to Dong Thien Pagoda for a meaningful encounter with local Buddhist nuns. Learn about their daily life in the temple, share stories, and enjoy a simple yet heartwarming vegetarian lunch lovingly prepared by the nuns themselves. Afterward, wander through the main hall, where an exquisite collection of Buddha statues reflects the deep spiritual heritage of this sacred place.

Afternoon

This afternoon, depart Hue and travel south to Hoi An, an ancient town (approximately 3-hour drive). Drive along the beautiful Hai Van Pass and enjoy sweeping views of the coast and mountains. Along the way, enjoy a quick stop at the beautiful Lang Co Beach. On arrival in Hoi An, check into your hotel and enjoy the remainder of the evening at leisure.

Overnight in Hoi An

Meals: Breakfast, lunch

Morning

Meet your guide at the hotel, and then you will proceed to see a local market. In order to purchase the ingredients for the cooking class, you should negotiate with the local vendors. After that, get into a car and make your way to Cam Thach. Visit a village in Cam Thanh and take in the sights of the coconut palm trees located there.

Your guide will provide you with enlightening information about the community, and you will also have an understanding of the routines that the residents follow. You can take a leisurely ride around the Thu Bon River by boarding a traditional coracle boat and enjoying the voyage. Learn how to sail the basket boat and spend your time catching fish and “purple crabs” in the Canal, or attend a performance by some of the local artists and participate in a workshop on how to craft keepsakes out of palm leaves.

Before beginning the lantern-making class, take a break. Learn about the history of these lanterns and follow the instructions to create your own lantern, which you can keep as a souvenir. 

After that, you will take part in a cooking lesson that emphasizes hands-on experience. You will study the traditional methods of preparing and cooking Vietnamese food from scratch, and you will gain this knowledge in collaboration with your Chef. You will cook four well-known dishes, including Nem Ran (the fried spring rolls), Banh Xeo (rice pancakes), Nom Du Du (papaya salad with chicken), Cao Lau noodles, and Nem Cuon Hoi An (fresh spring rolls), by making use of the freshest ingredients and traditional Vietnamese tools that are still in use today.

After the class, you sit down and enjoy the dishes you and your chef created. Bid farewell to your chef and return to your hotel. 

Afternoon

You will embark on an enlightening walking and street food excursion with your local guide to uncover the allure of this historic trading port that is situated on the banks of the Thu Bon River. Before crossing the Japanese Covered Bridge, take a stroll through the tiny lanes that are paved with cobblestones, view the structure that was influenced by early European traders, go to a local family church that serves as the center of ancestor worship, and step inside a pagoda that is designed in the Chinese style. It was the first bridge in Hoi An, and it was built in 1593 by the Japanese colony of Hoi An. Its purpose was to connect the town with the Chinese Quarter, which was located on the other side of the stream. It is recommended that you first explore the Fukien Association Temple and the Chua Ong Temple before proceeding to the Ceramic Museum to find hidden gems.

 Throughout tonight's meal, we will indulge in some of the mouthwatering street food that Hoi An's old town has to offer.  Along with your local guide, you will have the opportunity to enjoy some traditional cuisine and discover some of the best street meals and restaurants that are run by families. Taste some of the traditional dishes that have been influenced by the various trading communities that have passed through Vietnam over the centuries. Some of these dishes include Com Ga Hoi An (Vietnamese chicken rice), Hoanh Thanh (Chinese-inspired wonton), Banh Vac (white rose cake), and Cau Lau (Hoi An noodle soup).

Overnight in Hoi An

Meals: Breakfast, lunch, and street food.

Leave the charming town of Hoi An behind this morning and journey south along Vietnam’s stunning coastline toward Phu Yen. Along the way, stop in Quy Nhon — a peaceful seaside city in Binh Dinh province that remains one of Vietnam’s best-kept secrets. When you arrive, you have a free afternoon and evening to explore at your own pace. Take in the sweeping ocean views, visit the ancient Banh It Towers or the striking Canh Tien Tower perched on a hill, and discover the region’s rich Cham heritage. For food lovers, this stretch of coast is a culinary delight — taste local specialties like banh xeo tom nhay (crispy shrimp pancake), nem nuong (grilled pork rolls), or bun ca (fish noodle soup). 

Overnight in Quy Nhon

Meals: Breakfast

Morning

Your first stop is Mang Lang Church, one of Vietnam’s oldest and most beautiful Gothic-style churches. Standing gracefully amid the quiet countryside, its weathered stone façade and towering spires tell a story of time and devotion. Built more than a hundred years ago, this church is not just an architectural treasure but also a place where the meeting of East and West still echoes softly through every arch and window. As you stroll around the peaceful grounds in the morning light, you may feel the weight of history, the whisper of prayers past, and the calm strength of faith that has endured for generations.

Continue your journey to Phu Tan Mat Weaving Village, where daily life flows at the steady pace of handwoven craft. Here, local artisans carry on a centuries-old tradition — weaving mats from rush grass harvested from the nearby fields. Watch as their hands move in rhythmic harmony, transforming humble grass into colorful, intricate patterns. The gentle sound of looms fills the air, blending with the scent of sun-dried reeds to create a living melody of rural Vietnam. As you wander through the village, you’re not just observing a craft; you’re stepping into a world where time slows down and skill meets soul. It’s a reminder that beauty often lies in the simplest of things, made with patience and love.

Settle into a local seaside restaurant shaded by trees and cooled by the ocean breeze. Enjoy a lunch that captures the essence of coastal life: perhaps grilled fish seasoned with sea salt, a fragrant bowl of seafood hotpot, or the famous banh canh cha ca — thick noodles with tender fish cake in savory broth. Each bite carries the taste of the sea, the warmth of the sun, and the quiet pride of the fishermen who bring these gifts to shore.

Afternoon

The rest of the afternoon is free for you to explore on your own or rest and recharge. You could also go to Ky Co Beach or Hon Kho Island for the day to swim in the clear blue water. This is your perfect chance to relax and put your feet up by the sea.

Late afternoon

You'll be taking an overnight train tonight, so maybe get some snacks this afternoon to take with you. Read a good book on your way to Ho Chi Minh City. Watch the scenery change as the light changes outside. This will give you a sense of what life is like in Vietnam's countryside.

Note

The overnight train will take about 12 hours to get you there. Even though the surroundings are basic, riding an overnight train in Vietnam is a fun experience. Sleeper trains usually have rooms with four. You will find a sheet, pillow, and blanket there, but some travelers like to bring their own. You might have to share with people of different genders or riders who aren't in the group, depending on how the group is set up. You can get snacks and drinks before the train leaves, but most trains have an eating car with simple food.

Overnight on the train

Meals: Breakfast, Lunch

Ho Chi Minh City Day Tour – A Journey Through Time and Energy

Morning: Welcome to the Beating Heart of the South
Arrive early this morning in Ho Chi Minh City, Vietnam’s most vibrant and fast-paced metropolis. Formerly known as Saigon, the city perfectly blends the charm of its colonial past with the pulse of modern life. After checking into your shared hotel room and taking a moment to freshen up, get ready to explore the sights, sounds, and flavors that make this city truly unforgettable.

Begin your guided city tour, which will share fascinating stories of Saigon’s transformation from a French colonial port to the bustling economic hub it is today. Drive through tree-lined boulevards and admire landmarks that echo the city’s layered history. Pass by the Central Post Office (GPO) — an architectural gem designed by Gustave Eiffel — and the grand Reunification Palace, once the seat of the South Vietnamese government. Continue to the Opera House, an elegant French colonial building that stands proudly among sleek skyscrapers, symbolizing the city’s graceful balance between tradition and progress.

Stop at the War Remnants Museum, where powerful exhibits and photographs offer a sobering but important look into Vietnam’s modern history. Then visit Notre Dame Cathedral, an enduring symbol of Saigon’s spiritual and architectural heritage, built entirely from materials imported from France. As you stand before its twin bell towers, you can feel the echoes of a bygone era still lingering amid the hum of motorbikes and street vendors.

Afternoon 

The afternoon is yours to discover the city at your own pace. You might wander through the stylish Dong Khoi Street with its chic boutiques and cafés, or explore the local neighborhoods where hidden temples and street-food stalls sit side by side.

Evening

Experience the vibrant nightlife of Vietnam with an exhilarating "Saigon by Night" tour. Take a ride on the back of a scooter and relax while sampling the greatest local dishes and drinks, and exploring the hidden gems of Saigon. This unique adventure provides a refreshing change from our daytime excursions, allowing you to immerse yourself in the lively atmosphere after dark. During the food tour, we will take you to the city's most popular street vendors and hidden lanes, showcasing where locals prefer to eat. So save your appetite, thrill your palate, and allow us to fill your stomach with delicious and authentic Vietnamese cuisine!

Rest assured, even vegetarians can enjoy a wide range of delectable choices! Safety is our top priority, so you can relax and enjoy the adventure.

Overnight in Ho Chi Minh

Meals: Breakfast and Street Food

Morning: Journey into History – The Cu Chi Tunnels

After breakfast, meet your guide and drive northwest through the vibrant outskirts of Ho Chi Minh City toward Cu Chi, a rural district famous for its immense underground network of tunnels. Once used by the Viet Cong as hiding spots, communication routes, and living quarters during the Vietnam War, the tunnels now stand as a powerful reminder of the country’s turbulent past and enduring spirit.

Begin your visit with a short documentary that sets the scene, revealing how these tunnels were constructed and used under extraordinary conditions. Then, follow your guide through the forested area to see the camouflaged entrances, bunker kitchens, and makeshift hospitals that formed an underground city. For those who wish, there’s a chance to crawl through a section of the tunnels — a thrilling yet humbling experience that brings history to life.

Afterward, sample cassava and herbal tea, the simple yet vital wartime rations of the soldiers who once lived here. Reflect on the ingenuity and determination it took to survive underground before heading to a local restaurant for a Vietnamese-style lunch surrounded by peaceful countryside.

Afternoon: The Tranquil Beauty of the Mekong Delta

Following lunch, journey south toward the Mekong Delta, known as the "rice bowl of Vietnam" — a vast network of rivers, canals, and lush islands that sustain millions of lives. Board a motorboat and glide across the broad waters before switching to a traditional sampan to meander through narrow palm-shaded canals, where time seems to stand still.

Arrive at Coconut Island, where warm smiles welcome you into a local family home. Sip honey tea, sample fresh tropical fruits, and enjoy a taste of rice wine while listening to live đờn ca tài tử — the soulful folk music of southern Vietnam, recognized by UNESCO as an Intangible Cultural Heritage.

Explore small workshops where coconuts are transformed into candies, handicrafts, and everyday items — a fascinating look at rural creativity and self-sufficiency. Take a leisurely walk through quiet village paths lined with fruit trees, passing by stilt houses and friendly locals going about their daily routines.

As the sun softens in the late afternoon, return to the pier and begin your journey back to Ho Chi Minh City, your heart filled with the stories, flavors, and colors of Vietnam’s southern soul.

Overnight in Ho Chi Minh

Meals: Breakfast, Lunch

Start your day with a tasty breakfast at your hotel.

You will have free time to shop and explore before heading to the airport, where you can catch your flight home or to your next destination; we will assist you with the planning.

The tour is over, but the lovely memories you made in the last 14 days will last a lifetime. This is what we want to offer you: a tour that brings you wonderful local experiences and makes you smile each time you think of them! As you reflect on the journey, we hope you carry the spirit of adventure with you, inspiring future travels and explorations. Remember, each destination holds a story waiting to be discovered, and we can't wait to help you write the next chapter of your travel adventures!