Best of Vietnam Suggested Itinerary 

Check off the best bits of Vietnam in a jam-packed nine-night itinerary.

Dive into this colourful and intriguing land, beginning in Hanoi, then spend a night cruising through the emerald waters of Halong Bay. You’ll work your way south, stopping in Hoi An, where there’s the opportunity to relax in a soothing, wellness-focused retreat, before wrapping things up in glorious Ho Chi Minh City.

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9 nights Hanoi, Halong Bay, Hoi An, Ho Chi Minh City

Recommended itinerary

Day 1

Hanoi

You’ll arrive in the capital of Vietnam, where the smart and elegant Mövenpick Hotel stands ready to help you refresh from your travel day. Step out onto the busy streets where the calmness of tai chi at dawn collides with the cacophony of daily life. At every turn, there’s an aromatic food stall, a colourful building, or an ancient monument to catch your eye.

Days 2-3

Halong Bay

Swap the vibrancy of Hanoi for the serenity of Halong Bay, taking a memorable overnight cruise around this sensationally beautiful area, where thousands of limestone islands and islets rise from emerald waters. The calm and peaceful atmosphere of the bay is perfect for unwinding and appreciating the natural splendour of Vietnam.

Day 4

Hanoi

After disembarking your cruise, you’ll return to Hanoi and spend another night in the Mövenpick Hotel, perhaps opting to explore the Old Quarter and its colonial buildings. Or maybe you’ll search out the 11th-century One Pillar Pagoda — it’s not far from your hotel.

Days 5-6

Hue

You’ll fly from Hanoi to Da Nang to spend the next couple of nights in a countryside retreat outside Hue. You’re here long enough to spend a day exploring the highlights of Vietnam’s former capital.

Hue, Vietnam

Dragon boat, Hue, Vietnam

Days 7-9

Hoi An

Staying at the beautiful Almanity Hoi An Resort & Spa will tempt you to focus on your wellbeing and relax in its tranquil surroundings, but you have enough time here to balance moments of zen with exploring the city of Hoi An. Some of the city’s highlights are within walking distance of the hotel. Visit a traditional Vietnamese house or take a boat trip along the Thu Bon River for a different perspective of the city.

Days 10-11

Ho Chi Minh City

Next is Ho Chi Minh City, formerly known as Saigon, where you’ll stay for two nights — just enough time to scratch the surface of this bustling metropolis, that’s deservedly famous for its intriguing history, vibrant culture, and delicious street food. Your centrally situated hotel means Ben Thanh Market and the War Remnants Museum are within walking distance.

Days 12-16

Phu Quoc

Unwind on palm-fringed shores, staying at Sailing Club Signature Resort, a leading luxury resort. After four blissful nights here, a private transfer will collect you and return you to the airport, ready for your flight home.