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Vietnam Food & Culture Journey: Hanoi to Mekong Delta – 10 Days
from $1421/pax
Departure:At Customer's Request
Category:Culture & History · Food & Culinary · Market Visit · Motorbike · Trekking & Hiking · Village & Culture
Theme:Food & Culinary
Type:Multi-Day Tour, Private Tour
Why travelers love this trip?
- Savor Michelin-recommended street food in Hanoi, Da Nang, Hoi An, and Ho Chi Minh City.
- Discover the unique cultural charm of Hoi An’s ancient town.
- Explore wartime history at the Cu Chi Tunnels and enjoy a boat trip through the Mekong Delta.
- Experience local nightlife on thrilling motorbike rides through bustling city streets.
BOOK WITH CLARITY
Local planning, clear value, fewer surprises
EcoTravel combines local trip planning with clear, itemized booking information. Before payment, we re-check the operating itinerary, current price, hotel level, included transport, meals and any optional costs for your travel date. If a detail is flexible or subject to availability, we explain it before you confirm so you can compare quality and total value, not just the headline price.
Clear price and inclusions
We show what is included, what is optional and any date-specific surcharge we can identify, so you can compare total value rather than only a headline price.
Local support when plans matter
Use one local contact for room requests, dietary needs, transfer questions and practical changes that can affect a multi-stop Vietnam trip.
Trip Itinerary
WHY THIS JOURNEY STANDS OUT
Watch Vietnam change as the journey moves from north to south
Over 10 days, the journey moves from Hanoi through Halong Bay, Da Nang, Hoi An and Ho Chi Minh City before ending in Mekong Delta. What keeps the route interesting is how the experience changes from one chapter to the next; the signature moments below show where that contrast becomes part of the journey.
What makes this itinerary worth comparing is the balance between experiences, travel time and overnight stops. The day-by-day plan below shows where the pace changes, what is included, where you sleep and how each destination connects to the next, while keeping the confirmed free time visible instead of hiding it inside a packed schedule. It also makes the main transfer sectors easy to spot, so you can judge whether the journey feels comfortable for the way you like to travel.
Hanoi at street level
Taste Hanoi through the street-food or local-food experience scheduled in the itinerary, adding flavor and neighborhood life to the city stay.
Halong Bay from the water
See the limestone bay from the water through the cruise or boat experience confirmed in the program.
Heritage and local life in Hoi An
Walk through the heritage and local-life experiences included in Hoi An, giving the journey a more intimate contrast to the larger cities.
Life along the Mekong waterways
Move from city streets to river and canal experiences that show a different rhythm of southern Vietnam.
Before you decide: If you are deciding whether this tour is the right use of your time and budget, start with the route and signature moments below. They show the real shape of the trip before you get into the detail of each day.
JOURNEY OVERVIEW
See the full route before you travel
Follow the destination sequence, day numbers and main transfers at a glance before reading the full itinerary below.
Route:HanoiHalong BayDa NangHoi AnHo Chi Minh CityMekong Delta
- Day 1HanoiArriving in Hanoi - The Capital City
- Day 2HanoiHanoi Street Michelin Walking Food Tour by Night
- Day 3Hanoi → Halong BayHanoi - Halong Bay - Ambassador cruise
- Day 4Hanoi → Halong Bay → Da NangHalong Bay - Hanoi - Fly to Da Nang
- Day 5Da Nang → Hoi AnDa Nang Michelin Street Food Tour by Motorbike
- Day 6Da Nang → Hoi AnDa Nang - Transfer to Hoi An, Half-Day Walking Tour & Michelin Dinner
- Day 7Hoi AnFree Day in Hoi An
- Day 8Hoi An → Ho Chi Minh CityHoi An - Fly to Ho Chi Minh City - Michelin Street Food Tour by Scooter
- Day 9Ho Chi Minh City → Cu Chi Tunnels → My ThoCu Chi Tunnels & Mekong Delta Full-Day Tour
- Day 10Ho Chi Minh CityDeparture from Ho Chi Minh City
Numbered stops follow the tour itinerary. Transport icons appear only where the day-by-day program identifies that travel mode.
1Day 1: Arriving in Hanoi - The Capital City
Upon arrival at Noi Bai International Airport, You'll be warmly welcomed by our representative and transferred to your hotel located in the heart of Hanoi. Take some time to relax and unwind after your long flight. Depending on your arrival time, you may choose to head out and get your first impression of Vietnam’s capital city.
You can wander through the bustling streets of the Old Quarter, where charming French colonial buildings line narrow alleyways, or enjoy a peaceful stroll around Hoan Kiem Lake.
Start point.
Hanoi.
Meals: Breakfast
Accommodation: Hotel in Hanoi
2Day 2: Hanoi Street Michelin Walking Food Tour by Night
Led by a local guide, you’ll weave through the narrow alleys of Hanoi Old Quarter, where the air is filled with the irresistible scent of sizzling grilled pork and fresh herbs. Along the way, you'll get to try some of Vietnam’s most iconic dishes - Bun Cha, a steaming bowl of Pho noodle soup, the famous "Cha Ca La Vong", and finish off with a creamy cup of traditional egg coffee.
Each dish offers a glimpse into the heart and soul of Hanoi, shaped by generations of tradition and the creativity of street food culture. Your guide will share fascinating stories behind each dish and the vibrant culinary scene that has earned recognition from the Michelin Guide.
Meals: Breakfast, Dinner
Accommodation: Hotel in Hanoi
3Day 3: Hanoi - Halong Bay - Ambassador cruise
Morning
From 08:00 - 08:30, your journey begins as our friendly driver picks you up at your hotel in Hanoi Old Quarter. Set off on a scenic drive to Halong International Cruise Port, where you’ll arrive by late morning.
After check-in, a tender boat will take you to board the luxurious Ambassador Cruise. As the crew warmly welcomes you aboard, enjoy a special welcome drink and cruise briefing in the elegant Piano Lounge before settling into your private cabin.
Shortly after, delight in a buffet lunch of carefully curated local and international dishes as the cruise sails into the heart of Halong Bay. Marvel at the surreal seascape of towering limestone karsts and tranquil emerald waters - an introduction to this UNESCO World Heritage Site.
Afternoon
Your first adventure awaits at Luon Cave, a hidden lagoon enclosed by a stone archway and towering cliffs. Choose between a serene rowing boat ride or an energizing kayak paddle (additional fee) to explore its peaceful waters.
Next, drop anchor at Titop Island, famed for its crescent beach and panoramic viewpoint. Swim in crystal-clear waters or hike up the winding path to the summit for a breathtaking 360-degree view of Halong Bay.
Back onboard, unwind with Happy Hour and Canapés, or join a hands-on Vietnamese cooking class held either on the sun deck or in the Piano Lounge.
Evening
As the sun sets, indulge in a Michelin-inspired dinner under the stars (weather permitting), accompanied by live music (except Mondays). Let the smooth melodies and fine flavors set the tone for a magical evening.
After dinner, the night is yours to enjoy - try your luck with squid fishing, sip cocktails at the lounge, listen to live acoustic tunes, or pamper yourself with a rejuvenating spa treatment.
NOTE: The itinerary is subject to change. Please confirm the latest schedule and details with your travel consultant.
Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
Accommodation: Ambassador Cruise
4Day 4: Halong Bay - Hanoi - Fly to Da Nang
Morning
Greet the day in serenity with a Tai Chi session on the sundeck, set against the backdrop of Halong Bay’s glowing sunrise. Afterwards, enjoy a light breakfast of tea, coffee, and freshly baked pastries at the restaurant.
The morning continues with a explore to the legendary Sung Sot Cave - the largest and most awe-inspiring grotto in Halong Bay. As you wander through its vast chambers, marvel at ancient stalactites and stalagmites illuminated in magical hues, each formation telling a story carved by nature over millennia.
Return to the cruise and treat yourself to a buffet brunch, a final feast with panoramic views of the bay’s limestone towers. As the cruise gently glides back toward the harbor, take in these last moments of Halong's breathtaking seascape.
Around 09:30, settle your bills and complete check-out at the reception on the first deck.
By 10:15 - 10:30, disembark at Halong International Cruise Port and bid farewell to the gracious crew.
Afternoon
Your transfer will be waiting to escort you to the airport for your short flight to Da Nang, the gateway to central Vietnam’s cultural treasures and coastal charm.
Upon landing, our driver will greet you and transfer you to your hotel for check-in. Enjoy the rest of the day at your leisure - relax on the beach, explore the vibrant city, or simply unwind after your journey.
Meals: Breakfast, Brunch
Accommodation: Hotel in Da Nang
5Day 5: Da Nang Michelin Street Food Tour by Motorbike
Afternoon
At around 16:00, your friendly local guide will pick you up for an exciting food adventure through the lively streets of Da Nang. Choose to ride your own motorbike or sit back and enjoy the journey as a passenger, weaving through the vibrant beachside city.
As you explore, you’ll be immersed in Da Nang’s local rhythm - its buzzing markets, seaside roads, and colorful alleyways - while listening to stories that bring the city’s history and flavors to life.
Your guide will take you to carefully selected local eateries, where you’ll sample mouthwatering dishes, including regional icons like Banh Xeo (Vietnamese sizzling pancake), Bun Bo (spicy beef noodle soup), Mi Quang (turmeric rice noodles with pork and shrimp), fresh seafood, sweet local desserts, and the ever-popular Banh Mi.
Each stop has been chosen not only for its bold, authentic flavors but also for its high standards of food hygiene - many are Michelin-listed or locally celebrated favorites.
By the time the tour ends around 20:00, your appetite will be more than satisfied - no dinner needed! This is more than a food tour - it’s a deep dive into the culinary heartbeat of Da Nang and Hoi An.
Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
Accommodation: Hotel in Da Nang
6Day 6: Da Nang - Transfer to Hoi An, Half-Day Walking Tour & Michelin Dinner
After enjoying breakfast, you’ll continue your scenic journey from Da Nang to Hoi An - a charming ancient town where every alley echoes with traces of history. After that, begin a guided walking tour through the timeworn streets of this UNESCO World Heritage Site, once a thriving hub for international trade.
You’ll explore iconic landmarks such as the Japanese Covered Bridge, the Fujian Assembly Hall, and stroll through the vibrant traditional market, where fresh local produce and the rhythm of daily life give you an authentic glimpse into the local culture.
As the sun sets, prepare to indulge in a refined Michelin-style dinner, featuring Central Vietnam’s signature dishes such as “Com Ga”, “Bun Rieu”, “Bun Bo”, and “Bo Cuon La Lot”. This culinary evening offers you not only bold new flavors but also memorable experiences that highlight the richness of Hoi An’s food culture.
Meals: Breakfast, Dinner
Accommodation: Hotel in Hoi An
7Day 7: Free Day in Hoi An
Today is yours to explore the timeless charm of Hoi An at your own pace. Stroll through lantern-lit alleyways, take in the centuries-old architecture, or browse tailor shops and artisan boutiques for custom-made keepsakes.
You might choose to relax on the golden sands of An Bang Beach, join an optional cooking class, or simply sip Vietnamese coffee while watching the gentle rhythm of local life. Whether you seek culture, cuisine, or quiet, Hoi An offers a day of authentic discovery tailored just for you.
Meals: Breakfast
Accommodation: Hotel in Hoi An
8Day 8: Hoi An - Fly to Ho Chi Minh City - Michelin Street Food Tour by Scooter
After breakfast, enjoy some free time for last-minute shopping or a peaceful stroll through Hoi An’s ancient streets. Then, transfer to the airport for your short flight to Ho Chi Minh City, Vietnam’s vibrant southern hub. Upon arrival, check in to your hotel and unwind or start exploring the energetic rhythm of Saigon at your leisure.
Evening
Your evening adventure begins as our professional drivers pick you up at your hotel for a ride through the glowing streets of Ho Chi Minh City. Cruise past iconic landmarks like the soaring Bitexco Tower and soak in the energy of the city as it comes alive after dark.
As we glide through bustling districts, you’ll witness Saigon’s authentic nightlife - locals dining at vibrant street stalls, neon-lit corners buzzing with conversation, and the rich aroma of Vietnamese cuisine in the air.
We’ll head into Chinatown, where the fusion of Vietnamese and Chinese cultures is beautifully reflected in the architecture, colorful temples, and spirited streets. Here, you can try street food favorites like Bun Thit Nuong, Pho, Xoi Ga, and more - each dish a taste of Saigon’s diverse culinary soul.
Next, wander through the Ho Thi Ky Flower Market, the largest in the city. Open since 1987, the market bursts into color at night as fresh flowers arrive in fragrant waves. It’s the perfect spot to capture photos, find souvenirs, or simply take in the beauty of local life unfolding.
Around 22:00, return to your hotel, filled with new flavors, stories, and vibrant memories of Saigon’s enchanting evening.
Meals: Breakfast, Dinner
Accommodation: Hotel in Ho Chi Minh City
9Day 9: Cu Chi Tunnels & Mekong Delta Full-Day Tour
Morning
Prepare for a day rich in both historical depth and cultural discovery as you journey to two of southern Vietnam’s most remarkable landmarks.
Your morning begins with an early departure to the Cu Chi Tunnels, an extraordinary underground maze that offers a vivid glimpse into the tenacity and ingenuity of the Vietnamese people during the war.
Here, you’ll have the chance to crawl through the tight passageways once used by soldiers, explore concealed chambers and trapdoors, and hear first-hand stories about life underground - from makeshift kitchens to secret command centers that played a crucial role in Vietnam’s resistance efforts.
Afternoon
After this powerful encounter with the past, continue southward to My Tho, the gateway to the Mekong Delta - a region known for its tranquil waterways and lush greenery.
Step aboard a boat and begin your peaceful cruise along quiet, palm-lined canals. As you drift through the calm waters, take in the rhythm of delta life: explore a local orchard to sample freshly picked tropical fruits, enjoy a cup of fragrant honey tea, and relax as villagers perform traditional folk music in an authentic countryside setting.
Meals: Breakfast, Lunch
Accommodation: Hotel in Ho Chi Minh City
10Day 10: Departure from Ho Chi Minh City
After enjoying your final breakfast in Vietnam, you’ll check out of your hotel. Depending on your flight schedule, you might have some free time to take a last stroll through the lively streets of Ho Chi Minh City, sip coffee at a café, or pick up a few last-minute souvenirs to bring home.
At the scheduled time, you’ll be transferred to the airport for your departure flight. As your adventure comes to a close, you leave Vietnam with cherished memories and a deeper connection to its culture, history, and warm-hearted spirit.
End point.
Ho Chi Minh City.
Meals: Breakfast
Accommodation: NA
Important Notes:
- Program and schedule are subject to change without prior notice.
Inclusions
What's included
- Overnight in shared Twin/ Double room with Air-condition (AC) at hotel.
- All transport during a tour on the air-conditioned vehicle as per itinerary (including airport pick up & see off)
- All in-tour stationed local English-speaking guide.
- Meals as indicated in the program
- Entrance fees as per itinerary
- 02 domestic flights Hanoi - Da Nang, Da Nang - HCMC
What's not included
- International airfare
- Early check-in and late check-out
- Peak season surcharges and compulsory gala dinners (if applicable)
- Visa (passport valid for at least 6 months with a minimum of 3 blank visa pages)
- Personal expenses (tips, laundry, gratuities, etc.)
- Meals and drinks not mentioned in the itinerary
Tour Options & Prices
| Tour options | Prices | Total price (2 Adults) | Booking |
|---|---|---|---|
| First Class 4* Hotels | $1421/pax | $2842 | |
| Deluxe 5* Hotels | $1741/pax | $3482 | |
| Total | $2840/pax | $5680 | |
| Total | $3480/pax | $6960 |
Prices are shown per person. Final availability and booking details are confirmed with EcoTravel on WhatsApp.
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PLANNING QUESTIONS
Questions & Answers
Built from this tour’s confirmed route, transport, stays, meals and activity level so the answers stay specific to this itinerary.
Is 10 Days too rushed for this Vietnam route?
10 Days gives this itinerary enough room to connect several regions while still showing where the longer transfer days sit. The confirmed sequence is Hanoi → Halong Bay → Da Nang → Hoi An → Ho Chi Minh City → Mekong Delta.
How much travelling is involved between destinations?
This is a multi-stop itinerary rather than a single-base holiday. The route overview shows the confirmed sequence Hanoi → Halong Bay → Da Nang → Hoi An → Ho Chi Minh City → Mekong Delta. Where the itinerary identifies a flight, road transfer, train or boat, that transport mode is shown on the journey map so you can understand the travel flow before booking.
Are the domestic flights included in the tour price?
Yes. The current inclusion list identifies flight transport as included. The exact sectors should still be checked against the itinerary and booking confirmation because schedules and baggage rules can vary by departure.
What accommodation is used during the trip?
The accommodation summary for this itinerary is: Hotel (8 nights), Ambassador Cruise (1 night). If room category, bedding, private bathroom or hotel level matters to you, send that requirement before booking so the confirmed option can be checked rather than assumed.
Does the itinerary include any real free time?
Yes. One or more days include genuine free-time or leisure periods. We keep those periods clearly marked so you can see which days are structured and which give you space to rest or explore independently.
How physically demanding is this tour?
This itinerary includes active elements such as walking, trekking, cycling, kayaking or similar activities. The difficulty is not judged only by the tour length; review the specific activity day and transfer time. Share mobility, balance or fitness concerns before booking so the demanding sections can be checked with you.
Which meals are included, and can dietary requirements be handled?
The current meal summary is: 10 Breakfasts, 3 Lunches, 1 Brunch, 5 Dinner. Dietary requests are not assumed to be available everywhere, so mention vegetarian, vegan, allergy or other requirements before booking and EcoTravel can confirm what the operators on this exact route can accommodate.
Are optional activities or extra costs mixed into the main itinerary?
No. Optional activities and extra costs are kept separate from the core included program. Check the Exclusions and Important Notes sections for anything that may need separate payment.
Can this itinerary be adjusted for a private trip or specific travel needs?
Do not assume every scheduled element can be changed without affecting the route or price. Send your dates, group size and the exact change you need; EcoTravel can check what is customizable while keeping the published itinerary clear and easy to compare.
LOCAL TRAVEL NOTES
What to know before travelling in Vietnam
Practical advice from a local operator for packing, weather, money, documents and the small details that can make a multi-stop trip much easier.
What to pack for this route
Bring comfortable walking shoes, light breathable clothing, sun protection, a compact rain layer and personal medication and a small day bag.
Weather: plan by region, not one forecast
Northern Vietnam can be cool or misty from December to March; highland areas such as Sapa are noticeably cooler than Hanoi. Central Vietnam has a different rain pattern, with Hue often wetter from September to February. Ho Chi Minh City and the Mekong stay warm year-round, with more frequent afternoon rain from May to November. A light rain layer is useful even in the drier months.
Money, exchange and fair payment
Vietnam’s currency is the đồng (VND). Keep some cash for markets, street food and smaller local purchases; cards are practical for many larger expenses. Exchange rates move daily, so use the exact VND amount shown by your bank, card terminal or EcoTravel payment confirmation rather than an old screenshot. Before approving a card payment, check the number of zeros and the final VND total. A useful local check: the 20,000 VND and 500,000 VND notes are both blue-toned, so look at the printed value before handing one over.
Passport and entry documents
Entry and visa rules depend on nationality and can change. Check the requirements that apply to your passport before departure, and make sure the name, passport number, validity dates and planned entry point on your documents match your actual trip. If you are unsure, send EcoTravel your nationality and travel dates before booking so we can flag what you need to verify.
Phone, internet and cash away from cities
A local SIM or eSIM is useful for maps and messaging. In remote villages, mountain areas and small river stops, signal and card acceptance can be weaker, so keep some VND cash and save key hotel/guide details offline.
Health, comfort and local etiquette
Carry your regular medication, use bottled or properly filtered drinking water, and consider travel insurance for active itineraries. Dress respectfully at temples and religious sites, and tell EcoTravel in advance about allergies, mobility concerns or motion sickness.
Luggage for transfers and overnight sectors
Cruise cabins and tender transfers are more comfortable with only the luggage you need overnight. Keep passport, medication, valuables and one change of clothes in your day bag.
Before you confirm
Review price & inclusions ↑For a multi-stop Vietnam itinerary, send your exact travel dates, group size and preferred hotel level. If international or domestic flights are part of your wider trip, mention them so connection timing can be checked against Day 1 and the final day.
