Overview
Trip Highlights
- Take a cruise on Halong Bay, a famous UNESCO World Heritage Site, known for its emerald waters, stunning limestone karsts, and fascinating sea caves.
- Visit the ancient town of Hoi An in Vietnam, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, known for its vibrant atmosphere, charming ambiance, and colorful lanterns adorning the streets.
- Experience the unique Buddhism culture in Thailand where 95% of the population practices Theravada Buddhism.
- Learn how to cook northern Thai cuisine from a local chef and visit to an ethical elephant sanctuary in Chiang Mai.
Who is a good fit for this tour?
Itinerary
Arrive at Noi Bai International Airport(HAN) in Hanoi.
Transfer to your hotel for check-in.
Enjoy leisure time in the afternoon to familiarize yourself with the city and its bustling Old Quarter. Wander through the narrow streets and explore local markets.
Overnight in Hanoi.
Morning: A guided city tour will take you to popular landmarks such as the Ho Chi Minh Mausoleum, Presidential Palace, One Pillar Pagoda, and the Temple of Literature.
Afternoon: Visit the Vietnamese Women’s Museum to learn about the role of Vietnamese women in history, culture, and society.
Evening: Enjoy a unique traditional water puppet show, where the puppets are manipulated in a water stage.
Overnight in Hanoi.
Morning: Drive to Halong Bay, approximately 3.5 hours away from Hanoi.
Afternoon: Board a traditional Vietnamese junk boat for an overnight cruise. Explore the stunning limestone islets, visit floating villages, and experience sea caves up close. During the cruise, you can participate in swimming, kayaking, or other water activities.
Evening: Witness a Vietnamese cooking demonstration onboard and learn about local culinary techniques.
Overnight on the cruise ship.
Morning: Start your day with a Tai Chi session on the sundeck before visiting the impressive Sung Sot Cave, discovered by the French in 1901.
Afternoon: Disembark the cruise and return to Hanoi.
Evening: Catch your flight from Hanoi to Da Nang.
Overnight in Da Nang.
Morning: Transfer to the ancient town of Hoi An. Wander through the well-preserved streets while visiting the iconic Japanese Covered Bridge and Tan Ky Old House. Hoi An is a UNESCO World Heritage Site famous for its colorful lanterns and historical buildings.
Afternoon: Visit the lively Lantern Market, where you can purchase traditional lanterns as souvenirs.
Evening: Stroll along the Thu Bon River, where the town is illuminated by lanterns.
Overnight in Hoi An.
Morning: Return to Da Nang and visit the striking Marble Mountains, home to various Buddhist sanctuaries. Stop by the Linh Ung Pagoda, which offers panoramic views of the surroundings.
Afternoon: Drive approximately 3 hours to Hue via the scenic Hai Van Pass, known for its breathtaking coastal views.
Evening: Explore Hue on your own and enjoy its charming streets.
Overnight in Hue.
Morning: Discover Hue's historically significant Imperial City, starting with the Citadel, once the seat of the Nguyen Dynasty. Visit the Purple Forbidden City, and experience the serenity at Thien Mu Pagoda.
Afternoon: Embrace Hue's royal past at the Tomb of Emperor Minh Mang.
Evening: Take a flight from Hue to Ho Chi Minh City.
Overnight in Ho Chi Minh City.
Morning: Embark on a guided city tour covering landmarks such as the Reunification Palace, Notre-Dame Cathedral, Central Post Office, and War Remnants Museum.
Afternoon: Delve into Vietnam's war history further with a visit to the intricate Cu Chi Tunnels.
Evening: Free time to explore the city or enjoy its nightlife.
Overnight in Ho Chi Minh City.
Morning: Take a guided tour of the Mekong Delta, experiencing lush orchards, local villages, and traditional workshops. Journey through the picturesque waterways on a sampan boat ride.
Afternoon: Return to Ho Chi Minh City.
Evening: Catch your flight to Bangkok and transfer to your hotel.
Overnight in Bangkok.
Morning: Embark on a guided tour of Bangkok's famous landmarks, including the Grand Palace, Temple of the Emerald Buddha (Wat Phra Kaew), Wat Pho, and Wat Arun.
Afternoon: Free time to explore the city, visit the floating market, or indulge in some shopping.
Evening: Attend a traditional Thai dance and dinner show.
Overnight in Bangkok.
Morning: Take a day trip to Ayutthaya Historical Park, a UNESCO World Heritage Site. Explore ancient ruins and visit temples such as Wat Mahathat, Wat Phra Sri Sanphet, and Wat Chaiwatthanaram.
Afternoon: Return to Bangkok.
Morning: Fly from Bangkok to Chiang Mai.
Afternoon: Take a guided tour to visit Chiang Mai’s most significant temples, including Wat Chedi Luang, Wat Phra Singh, and Wat Suan Dok. These sacred sites showcase the city's religious heritage and architectural beauty.
Evening: Visit the bustling Chiang Mai Night Bazaar, a haven for shopping enthusiasts. Discover local handicrafts, traditional clothing, souvenirs, and street food.
Overnight in Chiang Mai.
Morning: Visit an ethical elephant sanctuary where you can feed and interact with elephants in a safe and responsible environment. Learn about the elephants' history and the conservation efforts undertaken by the sanctuary.
Afternoon: Participate in a traditional Thai cooking class. Learn to prepare authentic Thai dishes using local ingredients, and enjoy your homemade meal afterward.
Evening: Free time for leisure activities or to explore more of Chiang Mai's lively night scene.
Overnight in Chiang Mai.
Morning: Free time for last-minute souvenir shopping or relaxation.
Afternoon: Transfer to Chiang Mai International Airport(CNX) for your departure flight, concluding your 14-Day Vietnam and Thailand Highlights Tour.
Trip Notes
What’s Included
- Professional English speaking tour guides
- Entrance fee to all spots listed in the itinerary
- Well-selected hotel accommodation
- Meals mentioned in the itinerary
- Experienced driver and comfortable vehicle with air-conditioning
- Economy flight from Bangkok to Chiangmai