Vietnam Tour Package 8 Days — Hanoi, Halong Bay & Ho Chi Minh
This eight-day Vietnam adventure takes you from the lively streets of Ho Chi Minh City through the winding waterways of the Mekong Delta, over misty mountain passes to the lantern-lit alleyways of Hoi An, and finally into the emerald waters of Halong Bay. It is a carefully paced mix of cultural immersion, natural beauty, and authentic local encounters — ideal for first-time visitors and seasoned travellers alike.
Overview
Trip Overview
Your journey begins in Ho Chi Minh City, where French-colonial architecture meets buzzing motorbike traffic and aromatic street-food stalls. From there you venture deep into the Mekong Delta to float past coconut groves and stilted villages before flying north to explore Da Nang and the UNESCO-recognized charm of Hoi An. The final stretch immerses you in Hanoi’s thousand-year-old Old Quarter and culminates with an overnight cruise through the towering limestone karsts of Halong Bay — a fitting finale to an action-packed week in Southeast Asia.
Duration | Route | Key Destinations | Trip Type |
|---|---|---|---|
8 Days / 7 Nights | Ho Chi Minh → Mekong Delta → Da Nang → Hoi An → Hanoi → Halong Bay | Ho Chi Minh City, Mekong Delta, Cu Chi Tunnels, Da Nang, Ba Na Hills, Hoi An, Hanoi, Halong Bay | Cultural Exploration & Nature Adventure |
Trip Highlights
⛵ Halong Bay Overnight Cruise
Glide past thousands of limestone pillars on a traditional junk boat with sunset kayaking and fresh seafood on deck.
🛶 Mekong Delta Boat Ride
Navigate narrow waterways, visit coconut candy workshops, and sample tropical fruits at a floating village.
🏮 Golden Bridge at Ba Na Hills
Walk across the iconic bridge held up by giant stone hands, set amid misty mountains and French-themed gardens.
🏮 Hoi An Ancient Town
Wander through lantern-lit streets, explore centuries-old merchant houses, and attend a traditional cooking class.
⛪ Cu Chi Tunnels Experience
Crawl through a section of the historic underground network and learn about its remarkable wartime engineering.
🍴 Vietnamese Street Food Trail
Taste authentic pho, banh mi, and egg coffee guided by a local food expert in Hanoi’s Old Quarter.
🗻 Hanoi Old Quarter & Train Street
Witness the famous train rumble past balconies just inches away, and explore buzzing night markets.
🏙 Ho Chi Minh City Heritage Walk
Visit the Reunification Palace, Notre-Dame Cathedral, and the lively Bui Vien walking street after dark.
Itinerary at a Glance
Day | Route | Distance / Mode | Overnight Stay |
|---|---|---|---|
1 | Arrival in Ho Chi Minh City — City Tour | Airport transfer + 15 km city tour | Ho Chi Minh City |
2 | Ho Chi Minh City → Mekong Delta → Cu Chi Tunnels | ~140 km round trip by road | Ho Chi Minh City |
3 | Ho Chi Minh City → Da Nang → Hoi An | Domestic flight + 30 km transfer | Hoi An |
4 | Hoi An → Ba Na Hills → Da Nang | ~60 km round trip by road | Da Nang |
5 | Da Nang → Hanoi | Domestic flight (~1.5 hrs) | Hanoi |
6 | Hanoi City Tour | ~20 km within city | Hanoi |
7 | Hanoi → Halong Bay Cruise | ~170 km by road + cruise | Overnight on cruise |
8 | Halong Bay → Hanoi — Departure | ~170 km by road to airport | — |
Day-by-Day Itinerary
Arrival in Ho Chi Minh City — Welcome to Vietnam
Distance: ~15 km city tour
Touch down at Tan Son Nhat International Airport and transfer to your centrally located hotel. After freshening up, step out to explore the French-colonial District 1 on foot — pass by the grand Post Office, admire the Notre-Dame Cathedral facade, and soak up the organised chaos of Ben Thanh Market. As evening falls, stroll down lively Bui Vien Walking Street for your first taste of Vietnamese street food and cold bia hoi.
Note: Based on availability & our internal logistics
Mekong Delta & Cu Chi Tunnels — Rivers and History
Distance: ~140 km round trip
Start early for the Mekong Delta, where narrow canals wind through coconut palm groves and floating markets hum with commerce. Board a motorised sampan to visit a coconut candy workshop, taste honey tea on a bee farm, and enjoy a home-cooked lunch with a local family. In the afternoon, drive to Cu Chi to explore the legendary tunnel network — crawl through a widened section, see camouflaged trap doors, and hear stories of ingenuity and resilience. Return to Ho Chi Minh City by evening.
Note: Based on availability & our internal logistics
Fly to Da Nang & Explore Hoi An Ancient Town
Distance: Flight + 30 km transfer
Catch a morning flight north to Da Nang. On arrival, transfer straight to Hoi An — a perfectly preserved 16th-century trading port recognised by UNESCO. Spend the afternoon exploring the Japanese Covered Bridge, centuries-old merchant houses, and colourful fabric shops. As dusk settles, the entire town transforms into a glowing wonderland of silk lanterns reflected on the Thu Bon River. Pick up a handmade lantern, try cao lau noodles at a riverfront stall, and release a floating candle for good luck.
Note: Based on availability & our internal logistics
Ba Na Hills & the Golden Bridge — Mountains Above the Clouds
Distance: ~60 km round trip
Rise early and drive to Ba Na Hills for a ride on one of the world’s longest cable cars, ascending through layers of mist to a cool mountain-top resort. Walk across the iconic Golden Bridge, seemingly supported by colossal stone hands emerging from the hillside. Explore the French Village, Fantasy Park, and lush botanical gardens. After lunch at the summit, descend and return to Da Nang. The evening is free to enjoy My Khe Beach, consistently rated among Asia’s finest sandy stretches.
Note: Based on availability & our internal logistics
Fly to Hanoi — First Taste of the Capital
Distance: Flight ~1.5 hrs
A short flight brings you to Hanoi, Vietnam’s charming thousand-year-old capital. Check into your hotel near Hoan Kiem Lake and set off on a leisurely walk. Peer into the Ngoc Son Temple perched on its tiny island, watch locals practise tai chi along the waterfront, and weave through the famous 36 Streets of the Old Quarter, where each lane is named after the craft it once sold. End the day with a steaming bowl of bun cha — the grilled pork noodle dish that put Hanoi on every food lover’s map.
Note: Based on availability & our internal logistics
Hanoi Full-Day City Tour — Culture and Heritage
Distance: ~20 km within city
Spend the morning at Ba Dinh Square, where the imposing Ho Chi Minh Mausoleum sits flanked by tropical gardens. Continue to the One Pillar Pagoda, a tiny lotus-shaped temple balanced on a single stone column, and the Temple of Literature — Vietnam’s first university, dating back nearly a millennium. After lunch, visit the Tran Quoc Pagoda on the shores of West Lake, then unwind with a traditional water puppet performance. In the evening, wander down Train Street for the thrilling spectacle of a locomotive passing inches from cafe tables.
Note: Based on availability & our internal logistics
Halong Bay Overnight Cruise — Emerald Waters and Limestone Giants
Distance: ~170 km Hanoi to Halong
Depart Hanoi after breakfast for the scenic drive east to Halong Bay. Board your traditional wooden junk boat and set sail into a seascape of nearly two thousand towering limestone islets cloaked in jungle. After a freshly prepared seafood lunch on deck, kayak into secluded lagoons, explore Sung Sot (Surprise) Cave with its cathedral-like chambers, and then watch the sun melt into the bay from the top deck. Fall asleep to the gentle rocking of the boat as fishing-lamp lights flicker across the water.
Note: Based on availability & our internal logistics
Halong Bay Sunrise & Departure from Hanoi
Distance: ~170 km to Hanoi Airport
Wake to a misty sunrise over the karsts — an image that will stay with you long after you leave Vietnam. Enjoy a light tai chi session on the sundeck, followed by brunch as the boat cruises back to the harbour. Disembark and drive to Noi Bai International Airport in Hanoi for your homeward flight, carrying eight days’ worth of unforgettable memories, photographs, and flavours.
✓ Inclusions
- •7 nights accommodation (hotels + 1 night cruise)
- •Daily breakfast at all hotels and on cruise
- •4 lunches (Mekong Delta, Hoi An, Ba Na Hills, Halong cruise)
- •1 dinner on Halong Bay cruise
- •2 domestic flights (HCM–Da Nang, Da Nang–Hanoi)
- •All airport and inter-city transfers in AC vehicle
- •Halong Bay overnight cruise with kayaking
- •English-speaking local guide throughout the trip
- •All sightseeing entrance fees as per itinerary
- •Mekong Delta motorised boat ride
- •Ba Na Hills cable car tickets
- •Water puppet show tickets in Hanoi
✗ Exclusions
- •International flights to/from Vietnam
- •Vietnam visa fees (e-visa ~US $25)
- •Travel insurance
- •Meals not mentioned in inclusions
- •Personal expenses (shopping, laundry, tips)
- •Optional adventure activities (parasailing, jet-ski)
- •Camera or drone permits at heritage sites
- •Early check-in or late check-out charges
- •Anything not specifically listed in inclusions
Frequently Asked Questions
When is the best time to visit Vietnam?▼
The most comfortable months are October through April, when rainfall is lighter and temperatures are pleasant across most regions. Northern Vietnam (Hanoi, Halong Bay) is coolest from November to February, while the south stays warm year-round. Avoid June–August if you prefer to skip the monsoon season in central Vietnam.
Do Indian citizens need a visa for Vietnam?▼
Yes. Indian passport holders require a visa. The easiest route is the e-visa, which you can apply for online. It typically costs around US $25, is valid for 90 days, and allows multiple entries. Processing takes about three working days, so apply at least two weeks before your trip.
Is Vietnam safe for solo and female travellers?▼
Vietnam is widely regarded as one of the safest countries in Southeast Asia for all types of travellers. Petty theft (bag-snatching on motorbikes) is the most common concern in busy cities, so keep valuables secure. The local people are famously hospitable, and tourist infrastructure is well developed along the main travel routes covered in this itinerary.
What is the currency, and can I use Indian Rupees?▼
The local currency is the Vietnamese Dong (VND). Indian Rupees are not widely accepted, so carry US Dollars to exchange upon arrival or withdraw Dong from ATMs, which are plentiful in every city on this route. Major hotels and restaurants accept international credit cards, but street vendors and small shops prefer cash.
Will my Indian mobile phone work in Vietnam?▼
International roaming works but can be expensive. The most cost-effective option is to pick up a local SIM card on arrival at the airport; providers like Viettel and Mobifone offer tourist packs with generous data for a few dollars. Coverage is strong in cities and along highways, though it can be patchy on the Halong Bay cruise and in remote areas.
What should I pack for an 8-day Vietnam trip?▼
Pack light, breathable cotton or linen clothing, a light rain jacket (especially October–December), comfortable walking shoes, sunscreen, insect repellent, and a reusable water bottle. For temple visits, carry clothing that covers your shoulders and knees. A small daypack is handy for excursions. If travelling during the cooler months (November–February), bring a light sweater for Hanoi evenings and the Halong Bay cruise.
Is vegetarian or Jain food available in Vietnam?▼
Vietnamese cuisine features a strong Buddhist vegetarian tradition locally called “com chay.” Most cities have dedicated vegetarian restaurants, and our guides can help you navigate menus. Strict Jain dietary requirements (no root vegetables, no onion/garlic) are harder to accommodate at local eateries, so we recommend carrying some packaged snacks as a backup.
How physically demanding is this itinerary?▼
This trip is moderate in difficulty. Most days involve walking tours of 3–5 km on flat terrain. The Cu Chi Tunnels require some crouching, and Halong Bay kayaking is optional. Ba Na Hills involves a cable car ride (no hiking), and all inter-city travel is by flight or AC vehicle. It is suitable for travellers of most fitness levels, including older adults and families with children above age 6.
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Traveler Reviews
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Shipra Reddy
“This tour package offered a very good balance between sightseeing, relaxation, and cultural experiences. Hanoi was charming with its narrow streets, traditional shops, and beautiful lakes. I really enjoyed visiting the historical landmarks and exploring the markets in the Old Quarter. Halong Bay was the highlight of the entire trip. The cruise was comfortable and the scenery was absolutely breathtaking. The limestone formations and emerald waters make the place feel almost surreal. The activities on the cruise were also well planned and not too rushed. Ho Chi Minh City felt very different from Hanoi, with a more modern atmosphere and busy streets. The historical tours, especially the Cu Chi Tunnels, were informative and eye-opening. The only reason I’m giving four stars instead of five is that the schedule was slightly packed on some days. Otherwise, it was a very enjoyable trip.”
Aditya Bansal
“I recently completed the 8-day Vietnam tour covering Hanoi, Halong Bay, and Ho Chi Minh City, and overall it was an excellent experience. Hanoi was a great place to start the trip because it gives you a good introduction to Vietnam’s culture, architecture, and street life. Walking through the Old Quarter and trying local Vietnamese food was one of my favorite parts of the journey. The highlight of the entire tour was definitely Halong Bay. The cruise experience was incredible — the views of the limestone islands rising from the water were something I had only seen in photos before. Watching the sunset from the deck and waking up to the calm scenery in the morning was unforgettable. Ho Chi Minh City was completely different from Hanoi — more modern and energetic. The visit to the Cu Chi Tunnels was particularly interesting and gave a deeper understanding of Vietnam’s history. Overall, the tour was well organized with smooth transfers and comfortable hotels. I would definitely recommend this trip to anyone visiting Vietnam for the first time.”
Rahul & Priya Mehta
“Perfect honeymoon — Halong Bay was a dream We chose this package for our honeymoon and it exceeded every expectation. The overnight cruise through Halong Bay was the clear highlight — waking up to misty karsts at sunrise is something we will never forget. Hoi An at night felt like walking through a painting. Our guide Tuan was incredibly knowledgeable and always went out of his way to help us find the best photo spots and quieter restaurants. The domestic flights were seamless and the hotels were clean and centrally located. Honestly the best value-for-money international trip we have done.”
Shipra Reddy
“This tour package offered a very good balance between sightseeing, relaxation, and cultural experiences. Hanoi was charming with its narrow streets, traditional shops, and beautiful lakes. I really enjoyed visiting the historical landmarks and exploring the markets in the Old Quarter. Halong Bay was the highlight of the entire trip. The cruise was comfortable and the scenery was absolutely breathtaking. The limestone formations and emerald waters make the place feel almost surreal. The activities on the cruise were also well planned and not too rushed. Ho Chi Minh City felt very different from Hanoi, with a more modern atmosphere and busy streets. The historical tours, especially the Cu Chi Tunnels, were informative and eye-opening. The only reason I’m giving four stars instead of five is that the schedule was slightly packed on some days. Otherwise, it was a very enjoyable trip.”
Aditya Bansal
“I recently completed the 8-day Vietnam tour covering Hanoi, Halong Bay, and Ho Chi Minh City, and overall it was an excellent experience. Hanoi was a great place to start the trip because it gives you a good introduction to Vietnam’s culture, architecture, and street life. Walking through the Old Quarter and trying local Vietnamese food was one of my favorite parts of the journey. The highlight of the entire tour was definitely Halong Bay. The cruise experience was incredible — the views of the limestone islands rising from the water were something I had only seen in photos before. Watching the sunset from the deck and waking up to the calm scenery in the morning was unforgettable. Ho Chi Minh City was completely different from Hanoi — more modern and energetic. The visit to the Cu Chi Tunnels was particularly interesting and gave a deeper understanding of Vietnam’s history. Overall, the tour was well organized with smooth transfers and comfortable hotels. I would definitely recommend this trip to anyone visiting Vietnam for the first time.”
Rahul & Priya Mehta
“Perfect honeymoon — Halong Bay was a dream We chose this package for our honeymoon and it exceeded every expectation. The overnight cruise through Halong Bay was the clear highlight — waking up to misty karsts at sunrise is something we will never forget. Hoi An at night felt like walking through a painting. Our guide Tuan was incredibly knowledgeable and always went out of his way to help us find the best photo spots and quieter restaurants. The domestic flights were seamless and the hotels were clean and centrally located. Honestly the best value-for-money international trip we have done.”
“This tour package offered a very good balance between sightseeing, relaxation, and cultural experiences. Hanoi was charming with its narrow streets, traditional shops, and beautiful lakes. I really enjoyed visiting the historical landmarks and exploring the markets in the Old Quarter. Halong Bay was the highlight of the entire trip. The cruise was comfortable and the scenery was absolutely breathtaking. The limestone formations and emerald waters make the place feel almost surreal. The activities on the cruise were also well planned and not too rushed. Ho Chi Minh City felt very different from Hanoi, with a more modern atmosphere and busy streets. The historical tours, especially the Cu Chi Tunnels, were informative and eye-opening. The only reason I’m giving four stars instead of five is that the schedule was slightly packed on some days. Otherwise, it was a very enjoyable trip.”
Shipra Reddy