10 Days Best Vietnam and Laos Tour

After a hearty breakfast at your hotel, dive deep into the thousand-year-old history of Hanoi. Your private guide and driver will lead you through a curated journey of the city's most iconic landmarks.

• Morning: Spiritual & Historical Landmarks Your exploration begins at the serene Tran Quoc Pagoda, the oldest Buddhist temple in Hanoi. Perched on a small island in West Lake, its stunning 11-story red tower is a masterpiece of Buddhist symbolism. Next, visit the Ho Chi Minh Complex, a site of deep reverence. Pay your respects at the grand Ho Chi Minh Mausoleum, see the modest Stilt House where "Uncle Ho" lived and worked, and marvel at the One Pillar Pagoda—a unique structure designed to resemble a lotus flower blooming from the water. Wrap up the morning at the Temple of Literature, Vietnam's first national university, which offers a peaceful glimpse into the country's Confucian heritage.

• Lunch: Authentic Vietnamese Flavors Enjoy a delicious lunch at a hand-picked local restaurant, featuring traditional Hanoi specialties.

• Afternoon: Cultural Immersion & Local Life Choose your own path: visit the Museum of Ethnology to explore the diverse cultures of Vietnam's 54 ethnic groups, or the History Museum to trace the nation's turbulent past. As the sun begins to set, enjoy a leisurely stroll around the legendary Hoan Kiem Lake. The day concludes with an iconic 1-hour Cyclo Tour through the labyrinthine streets of the Old Quarter. This is the ultimate way to soak in the energy, craftsmanship, and street food aromas of Hanoi's historic heart.

Accommodation: Hotel in Hanoi

Meals: Breakfast & Lunch

Prepare for one of the most breathtaking highlights of your journey. After breakfast, enjoy a scenic drive through the lush Red River Delta as we head toward the Gulf of Tonkin.

• Boarding the Cruise: Upon arrival at the pier, you'll be welcomed aboard a luxury cruise vessel. After a refreshing welcome drink and a safety briefing, check into your private cabin with panoramic views of the emerald waters. As the anchor is raised, your majestic journey through Halong Bay—a UNESCO World Heritage site—begins.

• Afternoon of Exploration: Savor a gourmet lunch featuring fresh local seafood while the boat glides past iconic limestone karsts like Incense Burner and Stone Dog Islets. In the afternoon, we dive into the heart of the bay's "hidden treasures." Depending on the cruise itinerary, you may explore fascinating stalactite caves, visit a traditional floating fishing village, or relax on a secluded pristine beach.

• Onboard Activities: For those seeking adventure, take a kayak to explore hidden lagoons or swim in the crystal-clear waters. As evening approaches, join a Vietnamese cooking class on the sundeck or simply enjoy a "Sundowner" cocktail as the karst peaks turn golden in the sunset.

• Evening: Indulge in a lavish dinner under the stars, followed by evening entertainment or squid fishing from the deck.

Accommodation: Overnight on a traditional/luxury cruise in Halong Bay

Meals: Breakfast, Lunch & Dinner

Wake up to the gentle lapping of waves against the hull. As the sun rises over the emerald peaks of the bay, start your day with a soul-soothing Tai Chi session on the sundeck—a perfect way to harmonize your energy before the next leg of your adventure.

• The Final Cruise Leg: Enjoy a leisurely brunch as the vessel weaves through the remaining limestone formations on its way back to the harbor. After disembarking around noon, your private driver will be waiting to whisk you back to Hanoi's Noi Bai Airport in comfort.

• Journey to Central Vietnam: A short, convenient flight takes you from the capital to the coastal city of Da Nang. Upon arrival, your local guide will greet you and provide a scenic private transfer to the enchanting Hoi An Ancient Town (a UNESCO World Heritage site).

• Evening in Hoi An: After checking into your hotel, you have a free evening to explore. We recommend walking into the Old Town as the sun sets; seeing the hundreds of colorful silk lanterns reflected in the Thu Bon River is a magical experience that most travelers cite as a highlight of their trip.

Accommodation: Selected Boutique Hotel in Hoi An

Meals: Breakfast (Brunch on board)

Transfer: Private car & Domestic flight

Today is dedicated to exploring the rich tapestry of Central Vietnam's history, from the spiritual ruins of the past to the vibrant craft villages of today.

• Morning: The Sacred My Son Sanctuary Journey back in time as you visit My Son Holy Land, a UNESCO World Heritage site and the spiritual heart of the ancient Champa Kingdom. Nestled in a lush green valley, these mysterious brick temples and towers date back to the 4th century. Your guide will unveil the secrets of the "lost civilization" and the impressive masonry techniques that have stood the test of time.

• Afternoon: Hoi An Ancient Town & River Life Return to the charming Hoi An Ancient Town for a guided walking tour. Admire the iconic Japanese Covered Bridge, the ornate Chinese Assembly Halls, and the bustling local market where colors and aromas bring the town's history to life as a major trading port.

• Sunset Cruise & Craft Villages: In the late afternoon, board a traditional boat for a peaceful cruise on the Thu Bon River. We'll venture to Cam Kim Island to witness the incredible skill of local woodworkers and boat builders, whose families have practiced these crafts for generations. Our final stop is the Thanh Ha Pottery Village, where you can try your hand at the potter's wheel and learn about the ancient ceramic traditions of the region.

• Evening: Enjoy a free evening to dine at a riverside restaurant or get some world-class custom tailoring—a Hoi An specialty!

Accommodation: Hotel in Hoi An

Meals: Breakfast

After breakfast, your private driver will escort you to Da Nang Airport for a short domestic flight to Ho Chi Minh City (formerly known as Saigon). As you descend into the southern metropolis, you'll feel the energetic pulse of Vietnam's largest economic hub.

• Afternoon: The Incredible Cu Chi Tunnels Leaving the city skyline behind, we drive northwest to the historic Cu Chi Tunnels. This 250-kilometer-long underground labyrinth is a testament to the resilience and ingenuity of the Vietnamese people during the war. You won't just see the tunnels; you'll experience them. Your guide will lead you through hidden trapdoors and into specially constructed living areas. Discover how soldiers and civilians lived, cooked, and even attended school deep underground. Explore the command centers, field hospitals, and smokeless kitchens (Hoang Cam) that allowed a whole community to survive and fight in total secrecy.

• Evening: Saigon by Night Return to the city center and check into your hotel. In the evening, we recommend visiting the Bui Vien area for its lively atmosphere or enjoying a refined dinner at a rooftop restaurant overlooking the shimmering lights of the Saigon River.

Accommodation: Selected Hotel in Ho Chi Minh City

Meals: Breakfast

Transfer: Private car & Domestic flight

Bid farewell to the bustling streets of Saigon as we journey into the heart of the Mekong Delta, the "Rice Bowl of Vietnam." This morning is dedicated to exploring the lush, labyrinthine waterways of the mighty Mekong.

• Morning: River Life & Cultural Gems Our first stop is the magnificent Vinh Trang Pagoda in My Tho, a unique architectural blend of Vietnamese, Chinese, and European styles. Afterward, board a private boat for a scenic cruise along the river. Drift past traditional stilt houses and floating fishing villages, soaking in the rustic charm of river life. We then head to Tortoise Islet for a peaceful lunch served in the heart of a fragrant orchard garden, featuring local delicacies like "Elephant Ear Fish."

• Afternoon: Tropical Flavors & Crafts Continue your exploration at An Khanh, a serene area famous for its fruit orchards and traditional coconut candy workshops. Learn how locals transform simple coconuts into sweet treats before enjoying a relaxing rowboat ride through narrow, palm-shaded canals.

• Evening: Arrival in Laos In the afternoon, your driver will transfer you to the airport for your flight to Luang Prabang, the UNESCO-listed jewel of Laos. Upon arrival, you will be met by your Laotian guide and transferred to your hotel. You'll immediately feel the change in pace as the serene, spiritual atmosphere of this ancient town welcomes you.

Accommodation: Selected Hotel/Boutique Villa in Luang Prabang

Meals: Breakfast & Lunch

Transfer: Private car & International flight

Waking up in Luang Prabang, a UNESCO World Heritage town, feels like stepping back into a more peaceful era. Today, we explore the spiritual heart and rich royal history of Laos.

• Morning: Royal History & Sacred Temples Start your journey at the Royal Palace Museum, where you’ll discover fascinating artifacts from the Lao monarchy, including the sacred Prabang Buddha statue. Next, visit the city's oldest temple, Wat Sene, with its beautiful golden facade. The morning highlight is the magnificent Wat Xieng Thong, the "Temple of the Golden City." Located where the Mekong and Nam Khan rivers meet, its sweeping roofs and intricate "Tree of Life" mosaic are masterpieces of Lao architecture. We continue to the watermelon-shaped stupa of Wat Visoun and the tranquil shrine of Wat Aham.

• Afternoon: Ethnic Cultures & Traditional Crafts In the afternoon, dive into the diversity of Laos at the Traditional Arts and Ethnology Center (TAEC), where you'll learn about the vibrant cultures and costumes of the country's 49 ethnic groups. We then head just out of town to the riverside villages of Ban Xiengkhong and Ban Xienglek. Here, you can watch local artisans create delicate Sa Paper and practice ancient silk weaving techniques. On the way back, stop at the elegant Wat Mai, famous for its five-tiered roof and gold-leaf bas-reliefs.

• Evening: Sunset on Mount Phousi & The Night Market As the day cools down, climb the 328 steps to the summit of Mount Phousi. From the top, enjoy a breathtaking 360-degree view of the city, the surrounding mountains, and the Mekong River as the sun sets. The day ends with a visit to the famous Luang Prabang Night Market. Wander through the glowing stalls to find exquisite handmade textiles, Hmong crafts, and local street food treats.

Accommodation: Hotel in Luang Prabang

Meals: Breakfast

Today offers a perfect balance of Laotian spirituality and the breathtaking natural wonders that surround Luang Prabang.

• Early Morning: The Sacred Alms Giving (Tak Bat) Rise before dawn to witness one of the most iconic images of Laos: the Morning Alms Giving ceremony. Join the locals in silence as a procession of saffron-robed monks walks through the misty streets to receive offerings. This ancient tradition is a deeply moving experience that offers a glimpse into the spiritual heart of the community.

• Morning: Mekong Cruise & Pak Ou Caves After breakfast, board a private traditional boat for a scenic 2-hour journey upstream on the mighty Mekong River. Enjoy the tranquil views of riverside villages and limestone karsts before arriving at the Pak Ou Caves. These two interconnected caverns set into a cliffside are home to thousands of gold-lacquered Buddha statues, ranging from a few centimeters to the size of a human, left by pilgrims over centuries.

• Afternoon: Kuang Si Waterfalls – A Natural Paradise In the afternoon, travel through the lush countryside to the stunning Kuang Si Waterfalls. This multi-tiered cascade pours into a series of pale turquoise pools nestled in the tropical jungle. You can hike the jungle trails, take a refreshing swim in the crystal-clear water, or visit the nearby Bear Rescue Center to learn about the conservation of the endangered Asiatic Black Bears.

• Evening: Return to Luang Prabang for your final evening in this charming town. Perhaps enjoy a traditional Lao BBQ (Sindad) by the river for a perfect farewell dinner.

Accommodation: Hotel in Luang Prabang

Meals: Breakfast

Savor your final breakfast in the tranquil surroundings of Luang Prabang. Depending on your flight schedule, you may have some free time for a final stroll through the morning market to pick up last-minute souvenirs or enjoy one last cup of famous Lao coffee overlooking the Mekong.

• Seamless Departure: At the scheduled time, your private driver will meet you at your hotel for a comfortable transfer to Luang Prabang International Airport (LPQ). We ensure you arrive with plenty of time for check-in and security procedures, making your departure as stress-free as your arrival.

• Onward Journeys: As you board your flight, you'll carry with you the vibrant memories of Vietnam's bustling streets and the serene spirituality of Laos. If you wish to extend your stay or explore other Indochina gems like Cambodia's Angkor Wat or the islands of Thailand, our team is always ready to help you plan your next adventure.

Accommodation: None (End of services)

Meals: Breakfast at the hotel