Hanoi – Ha Long Bay – Quy Nhon – Ho Chi Minh City – Mekong Delta

Tour Code: GLT-VNHL-HLQNSG-11D
Duration: 11 Days / 10 Nights
Route: Hanoi → Ha Long Bay → Hanoi → Quy Nhon → Ho Chi Minh City → Mekong Delta → Ho Chi Minh City
Tour Style: Classic Vietnam Highlights | Coastal Heritage | Cultural Discovery | Beach & Local Life | Private Tailor-Made Tour

Recommended For

International first-time visitors to Vietnam who want a classic but more distinctive route.
Couples, families, senior travelers and small private groups.
Inbound partners looking for a Vietnam Highlights itinerary with a fresh coastal destination.
Travelers who enjoy culture, heritage, beaches, local food and authentic experiences.
Guests who want to avoid overly crowded beach destinations and discover Quy Nhon in a softer, deeper way.

Tour Concept

This 11-day journey is a refined version of the classic Vietnam Highlights tour.

Instead of following only the familiar route through Hanoi, Ha Long Bay, Hoi An, Ho Chi Minh City and the Mekong Delta, this itinerary brings guests to Quy Nhon — one of Vietnam’s most charming emerging coastal destinations.

The journey begins in Hanoi, Vietnam’s graceful capital, continues to the spectacular limestone seascape of Ha Long Bay, then moves south to Quy Nhon, where blue sea, fishing villages, Champa towers, Tay Son heritage and authentic local life create a very different coastal experience.

The final part of the tour brings guests to Ho Chi Minh City and the Mekong Delta, completing a beautiful north-to-south Vietnam journey with culture, nature, coastline, history and river life.

This is not just a sightseeing tour. It is a journey through Vietnam’s layered identity: capital elegance, natural wonder, coastal heritage, southern energy and river culture.

Brief Itinerary – 11 Days / 10 Nights

Meal Plan Summary

Accommodation Summary

DETAILED ITINERARY

DAY 1: ARRIVE IN HANOI

Welcome to Vietnam’s Timeless Capital

Welcome to Vietnam. Upon arrival at Noi Bai International Airport, you will be greeted by your local guide and transferred to your hotel in Hanoi.

Hanoi is the perfect starting point for a Vietnam journey. With its ancient temples, French-colonial architecture, tree-lined boulevards, peaceful lakes and lively street culture, the capital offers a graceful introduction to the country’s history and daily life.

After check-in, the rest of the day is free at leisure. You may relax after your flight or begin exploring the city at your own pace. Optional experiences such as a street food tour, cyclo ride or water puppet show can be arranged upon request.

Accommodation

Hotel in Hanoi

Meals

No meals included today

DAY 2: HANOI CITY DISCOVERY ( B, D )

History, Culture and the Soul of the Capital

After breakfast, begin a full-day discovery of Hanoi, a city where Vietnam’s past and present meet with elegance.

Start with the Ho Chi Minh Complex, one of the most meaningful historic sites in Vietnam. Depending on the opening schedule, you may view Ho Chi Minh’s Mausoleum from the outside and visit the surrounding area, including the Presidential Palace grounds, Ho Chi Minh’s stilt house and peaceful garden setting.

Continue to the Temple of Literature, Vietnam’s first national university and a beautiful symbol of the country’s scholarly tradition.

Later, visit the Vietnam Museum of Ethnology, where travellers can learn about the cultural diversity of Vietnam’s 54 ethnic groups. This visit provides valuable insight into the country beyond its major cities and famous landmarks.

In the afternoon, explore Hoan Kiem Lake and Ngoc Son Temple, located in the symbolic heart of Hanoi. Continue through the Old Quarter, where narrow streets, traditional shop houses, street vendors and local life create one of the most atmospheric urban experiences in Vietnam.

In the evening, enjoy a welcome dinner at a local restaurant.

Today’s Highlights

• Ho Chi Minh Complex
• Temple of Literature
• Vietnam Museum of Ethnology
• Hoan Kiem Lake
• Ngoc Son Temple
• Hanoi Old Quarter
• Welcome dinner

Accommodation

Hotel in Hanoi

Meals

Breakfast, Dinner

DAY 3: HANOI – HA LONG BAY OVERNIGHT CRUISE ( B, L, D )

Sail Through a UNESCO Natural Wonder

After breakfast, depart Hanoi and travel east towards Ha Long Bay, one of Vietnam’s most iconic landscapes and a UNESCO World Heritage Site.

Upon arrival at the cruise pier, board your overnight cruise and begin sailing through emerald waters surrounded by dramatic limestone karsts. Lunch is served on board as the vessel glides deeper into the bay.

In the afternoon, depending on the cruise schedule and weather conditions, you may join activities such as kayaking, cave visiting, swimming, relaxing on the sundeck or taking part in a short cooking demonstration.

As the sun sets over the bay, enjoy the peaceful beauty of one of Vietnam’s greatest natural wonders. Dinner is served on board, followed by a relaxing night surrounded by limestone islands and calm waters.

Today’s Highlights

• Scenic drive from Hanoi to Ha Long Bay
• Overnight cruise on Ha Long Bay
• Limestone islands and emerald waters
• Sunset on the bay
• Onboard dining experience
• Cruise activities depending on weather and operator schedule

Accommodation

Overnight cruise on Ha Long Bay

Meals

Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner

Travel Time

Hanoi to Ha Long Bay: approximately 2.5–3 hours by road

DAY 4: HA LONG BAY – HANOI ( B or Brunch )

Morning on the Bay, Return to the Capital

Wake early to enjoy the calm beauty of Ha Long Bay at sunrise. The morning light over the limestone islands creates one of the most memorable scenes of the journey.

Depending on the cruise program, you may join a Tai Chi session on the sundeck, enjoy tea or coffee, or take part in a final light excursion before the cruise returns to the pier. Brunch or an early lunch is served on board.

After disembarkation, transfer back to Hanoi. Upon arrival, check in at your hotel and enjoy the rest of the day at leisure.

This overnight stop in Hanoi allows the journey to remain comfortable and avoids rushing from Ha Long Bay directly to the airport. Guests can enjoy a relaxed evening, explore the Old Quarter, try local food or simply rest before flying to Quy Nhon the next day.

Today’s Highlights

• Sunrise over Ha Long Bay
• Morning cruise experience
• Return transfer to Hanoi
• Free evening in the capital

Accommodation

Hotel in Hanoi

Meals

Breakfast or Brunch

Travel Time

Ha Long Bay to Hanoi: approximately 2.5–3 hours by road

DAY 5: HANOI – QUY NHON ( B )

From the Capital to Vietnam’s Peaceful Heritage Coast

After breakfast, transfer to Noi Bai International Airport for your flight to Quy Nhon, a beautiful coastal city in Central Vietnam.

Upon arrival at Phu Cat Airport, meet your local guide and transfer to your hotel or resort in Quy Nhon. Unlike Vietnam’s more famous beach destinations, Quy Nhon offers a quieter, more authentic coastal atmosphere. It is known for blue waters, fishing villages, Cham towers, local cuisine and a peaceful rhythm of life.

After check-in, enjoy free time to relax by the beach or explore the city at your own pace. This is the beginning of a different Vietnam — less crowded, deeply local and full of hidden charm.

Today’s Highlights

• Flight from Hanoi to Quy Nhon
• Arrival in Vietnam’s emerging coastal destination
• Free time for beach relaxation
• First impression of Quy Nhon’s local atmosphere

Accommodation

Hotel or resort in Quy Nhon

Meals

Breakfast

Travel Time

• Hanoi to Quy Nhon: flight time approximately 1 hour 40 minutes
• Phu Cat Airport to Quy Nhon city: approximately 40–50 minutes by road

DAY 6: QUY NHON COASTAL DISCOVERY ( B, L )

Blue Sea, Fishing Villages and Coastal Beauty

After breakfast, begin a day discovering the coastal beauty of Quy Nhon.

Depending on weather and sea conditions, the program may include Ky Co Beach, Eo Gio, Hon Kho Island, Nhon Ly or Nhon Hai fishing village. These destinations reveal the natural charm of Quy Nhon: clear waters, rocky cliffs, small fishing communities, fresh seafood and a slower coastal lifestyle.

At Eo Gio, admire dramatic coastal cliffs and panoramic sea views. At Ky Co or Hon Kho, guests can enjoy beach time, boat experiences, swimming or simply relaxing by the sea. A local seafood lunch can be arranged to introduce guests to the fresh flavours of coastal Vietnam.

This day is designed not as a rushed sightseeing checklist, but as a soft coastal experience — giving travellers time to enjoy the sea, breathe, take photos and connect with local life.

Today’s Highlights

• Quy Nhon coastal scenery
• Ky Co Beach or Hon Kho Island, subject to weather
• Eo Gio coastal viewpoint
• Local fishing village atmosphere
• Fresh seafood experience
• Beach relaxation

Accommodation

Hotel or resort in Quy Nhon

Meals

Breakfast
Lunch can be included depending on package level

Important Note

Island and boat activities depend on weather, sea conditions and local safety regulations. The itinerary may be adjusted to ensure guest safety and comfort.

DAY 7: QUY NHON HERITAGE & LOCAL CULTURE ( B, L )

Champa Heritage, Tay Son Legacy and the Spirit of Binh Dinh

After breakfast, explore the cultural depth of Quy Nhon and Binh Dinh, a land where ancient Champa heritage, Vietnamese history, martial arts and local traditions come together.

Begin with a visit to one of the region’s remarkable Champa tower sites, such as Thap Doi or Banh It Towers. These brick towers reflect the artistic and spiritual legacy of the Champa civilization, which once flourished along Central Vietnam’s coast.

Continue to the Quang Trung Museum, dedicated to Emperor Quang Trung and the Tay Son movement, one of the most important chapters in Vietnamese history. If available, guests may enjoy a traditional martial arts or drum performance, offering insight into Binh Dinh’s proud identity as the land of Vietnamese martial arts.

The day may also include local food experiences, traditional markets or selected cultural stops depending on the group’s interests and timing.

This is the day that gives Quy Nhon its true value in the journey. Beyond the beach, guests discover a destination with memory, identity and cultural strength.

Today’s Highlights

• Champa towers in Binh Dinh
• Quang Trung Museum
• Tay Son heritage
• Traditional martial arts or drum performance, subject to availability
• Local cuisine and cultural storytelling
• Insight into Binh Dinh’s history and identity

Accommodation

Hotel or resort in Quy Nhon

Meals

Breakfast
Lunch can be included depending on package level

DAY 8: QUY NHON – HO CHI MINH CITY ( B )

From the Heritage Coast to the Energy of Saigon

After breakfast, enjoy free time by the beach before transferring to Phu Cat Airport for your flight to Ho Chi Minh City.

Formerly known as Saigon, Ho Chi Minh City is Vietnam’s largest and most dynamic metropolis. Modern towers, colonial architecture, traditional markets, stylish cafés and historic landmarks all exist side by side, creating a city of energy, contrast and constant movement.

Upon arrival, transfer to your hotel and check in. The rest of the day is free at leisure. You may explore the city independently, enjoy rooftop drinks, visit Ben Thanh Market or join an optional evening food experience.

Optional Experiences

• Saigon street food tour
• Saigon after dark by vintage Vespa
• Rooftop bar experience
• Ben Thanh Market evening visit

Accommodation

Hotel in Ho Chi Minh City

Meals

Breakfast

Travel Time

• Quy Nhon to Ho Chi Minh City: flight time approximately 1 hour 10 minutes
• Airport transfer time depends on traffic conditions

DAY 9: HO CHI MINH CITY TOUR ( B )

Historic Landmarks and the Vibrant Rhythm of Saigon

After breakfast, begin a guided city discovery of Ho Chi Minh City.

Visit the Reunification Palace, a landmark closely connected with the end of the Vietnam War in 1975. Continue to the Central Post Office, an elegant colonial-era building still in use today.

View the Notre-Dame Cathedral Basilica of Saigon from the outside, then continue past the Opera House and City Hall, two of the city’s most photogenic architectural landmarks.

If time allows, visit the War Remnants Museum, an important historical site that presents a powerful perspective on the human impact of war.

The tour may also include a visit to a local market, a traditional café or selected urban heritage corners depending on timing and group preference.

In the evening, guests are free to explore Saigon at leisure.

Today’s Highlights

• Reunification Palace
• Central Post Office
• Notre-Dame Cathedral exterior
• Saigon Opera House exterior
• City Hall exterior
• War Remnants Museum, subject to timing
• Local market or café experience, subject to program design

Accommodation

Hotel in Ho Chi Minh City

Meals

Breakfast

DAY 10: MEKONG DELTA EXPERIENCE ( B, L, D )

Waterways, Tropical Gardens and Southern Local Life

After breakfast, leave the city behind and travel to the Mekong Delta, a lush and fertile region shaped by rivers, canals, orchards and local communities.

Known as the “rice bowl” of Vietnam, the Mekong Delta offers a peaceful contrast to the urban energy of Ho Chi Minh City. Here, life follows the rhythm of the water. Boats carry fruit, vegetables and local goods through narrow canals; gardens overflow with tropical produce; and villages reveal the warmth of southern Vietnamese culture.

Upon arrival, board a local boat and cruise along the waterways. Depending on the selected route, you may visit a fruit garden, a small family workshop, a coconut candy producer or a local home. Enjoy tropical fruits, tea or local snacks while learning about daily life in the delta.

A local lunch is included, featuring regional dishes and fresh ingredients. In the afternoon, continue exploring by boat or sampan through smaller canals before returning to Ho Chi Minh City.

In the evening, enjoy a farewell dinner or spend your final night in Vietnam at leisure.

Today’s Highlights

• Full-day Mekong Delta excursion
• Boat trip through canals and waterways
• Tropical fruit tasting
• Local workshop or family visit
• Regional lunch
• Insight into southern Vietnamese life

Accommodation

Hotel in Ho Chi Minh City

Meals

Breakfast, Lunch
Farewell dinner can be included in upgraded packages

Travel Time

Ho Chi Minh City to Mekong Delta and return: approximately 4–5 hours total driving time, depending on route and traffic

DAY 11: DEPART HO CHI MINH CITY ( B )

Farewell Vietnam

After breakfast, enjoy free time until your transfer to Tan Son Nhat International Airport for your departure flight.

Your 11-day Vietnam journey comes to an end, leaving memories of Hanoi’s elegance, Ha Long Bay’s limestone seascape, Quy Nhon’s quiet coastal beauty, Saigon’s urban energy and the gentle waterways of the Mekong Delta.

Thank you for travelling with Golden Life Travel. We hope Vietnam stays with you as a collection of stories, flavours, landscapes and meaningful encounters.

Meals

Breakfast

Service

Airport transfer included

PRICE

From USD 1,689 per person

The tour price is calculated based on twin/double sharing accommodation and may vary depending on travel date, group size, hotel category, cruise standard, domestic flight availability and requested service level.

Final quotation will be confirmed at the time of booking after checking real-time availability and personalising the itinerary according to the guest’s preferences.

Price Depends On

The final tour price may change depending on:

• Travel dates and seasonality
• Number of guests in the group
• Hotel category and room type
• Ha Long Bay cruise standard and cabin type
• Domestic flight fare at the time of booking
• Meal plan and restaurant selection
• Private or shared services
• Guide language and service level
• Optional experiences and customised activities
• Special requests, upgrades or peak-season surcharges

Package Levels

1/ Standard Package

From USD 1,689 per person
Comfortable 4-star hotels, standard overnight cruise, private transportation, English-speaking guide and essential sightseeing.

2/ Signature Package

From USD 1,989 per person
Selected boutique hotels, upgraded cruise cabin where available, welcome dinner, farewell dinner, Quy Nhon coastal discovery and enhanced local experiences.

3/ Premium Package

From USD 2,489 per person
Luxury accommodation, premium cruise, private guide, refined dining experiences, selected resort stay in Quy Nhon and flexible pacing.

Important Pricing Note

All prices are indicative and subject to availability at the time of booking. Golden Life Travel will prepare a personalised quotation based on the guest’s travel date, group size, preferred hotel standard and requested experiences.

Please contact us for the most accurate and updated price for your journey.

Inclusions

• 10 nights’ accommodation based on twin/double sharing
• Overnight cruise on Ha Long Bay
• Daily breakfast
• Meals as mentioned in the itinerary
• Private air-conditioned transportation
• Airport transfers as per itinerary
• Domestic flights: Hanoi – Quy Nhon and Quy Nhon – Ho Chi Minh City
• English-speaking local guide
• Entrance fees for included sightseeing visits
• Boat trip in Ha Long Bay
• Quy Nhon coastal and heritage sightseeing as per itinerary
• Boat trip in the Mekong Delta
• Bottled water during touring days
• Local taxes and service charges

Exclusions

• International flights
• Vietnam visa or visa approval fees, if applicable
• Travel insurance
• Personal expenses
• Drinks not mentioned in the itinerary
• Optional tours and activities
• Tips for guides, drivers and cruise staff
• Single room supplement
• Early check-in or late check-out
• Meals not specified in the itinerary
• Any costs caused by flight delays, weather conditions or circumstances beyond the operator’s control

Payment Policy

To confirm the booking, a deposit is required after the itinerary, travel date, hotel category and service standard have been agreed upon.

• A deposit of 30% of the total tour value is required to secure the booking.
• The remaining balance must be paid 30 days before the departure date.
• For bookings made within 30 days of departure, full payment is required at the time of confirmation.
• Domestic flight tickets, cruise bookings and peak-season hotel rooms may require immediate payment or a higher deposit, depending on supplier conditions.
• Bank transfer fees, credit card fees or other transaction charges are not included and shall be covered by the client.
• The booking is considered confirmed only after Golden Life Travel has received the required deposit or full payment.

Golden Life Travel will issue a booking confirmation after receiving payment and finalizing all service arrangements.

Cancellation and Refund Policy

Cancellation requests must be sent to Golden Life Travel in writing by email or official message. The cancellation date is counted from the date Golden Life Travel receives the written request.

Cancellation by the Client

• Cancellation 45 days or more before departure: deposit may be refunded after deducting bank fees and any non-refundable supplier charges.
• Cancellation from 30 to 44 days before departure: 30% of the total tour value will be charged.
• Cancellation from 15 to 29 days before departure: 50% of the total tour value will be charged.
• Cancellation from 7 to 14 days before departure: 75% of the total tour value will be charged.
• Cancellation less than 7 days before departure or no-show: 100% of the total tour value will be charged.

Non-Refundable Services

The following services may be non-refundable once booked:

• Domestic and international flight tickets
• Train tickets
• Cruise bookings
• Peak-season hotel rooms
• Special event services
• Private shows, performances or exclusive experiences
• Visa-related services
• Any services marked as non-refundable by suppliers

Refunds, if applicable, will be processed after Golden Life Travel receives refunds from the relevant suppliers.

Changes to the Booking

Any request to change the travel date, number of guests, hotel category, room type, flight time, cruise standard or itinerary must be made in writing.

• Changes are subject to availability and supplier conditions.
• Additional costs may apply if the change affects hotel rates, flight fares, transportation, guide service or entrance fees.
• Golden Life Travel will do its best to support reasonable changes, but changes cannot be guaranteed once services have been confirmed.

Cancellation or Changes Due to Weather, Flight Delays or Force Majeure

Golden Life Travel may adjust the itinerary due to weather conditions, flight delays, cruise operation changes, road conditions, government regulations, natural disasters, public health issues or other circumstances beyond our control.

In such cases:

• The itinerary may be rearranged to ensure guest safety and service quality.
• Any additional costs caused by flight changes, extended accommodation, transportation or other unexpected services shall be paid by the client.
• Refunds for unused services will depend on supplier policies.
• Ha Long Bay cruise activities, Quy Nhon island trips and Mekong Delta boat trips may be adjusted or cancelled due to weather or safety regulations.

Guest safety will always be our first priority.

Children Policy

Children are welcome on Golden Life Travel tours. Child pricing is based on the child’s age at the time of travel, room arrangement, bedding requirements and supplier conditions at the time of booking.

Infants under 2 years old

Infants under 2 years old are free of charge for basic land services when sharing existing bedding with parents and not requiring separate meals or services.

Parents are responsible for all actual costs and surcharges for the infant, including but not limited to domestic flights, cruise fees, baby cot, meals, entrance fees, insurance, visa fees and any supplier charges.

Children from 2 to under 11 years old

Children from 2 to under 11 years old are charged according to bedding arrangement:

• 75% of the adult tour price when sharing existing bedding with parents and not requiring an extra bed.
• 85% of the adult tour price when using an extra bed in the parents’ room.
• 95% to 100% of the adult tour price when requiring a separate bed, separate room, family room, or when suppliers charge close to the adult rate.

Domestic flights, cruise charges, meals, entrance fees, extra beds and supplier surcharges are subject to actual supplier policies at the time of booking.

If a child requires a separate bed, separate room, full cruise service, adult-rated flight ticket or other services charged at adult rate by suppliers, the final child price may be adjusted according to actual supplier costs.

Children 11 years old and above

Children aged 11 years old and above are charged 100% of the adult tour price and will be arranged with adult-standard services, including a separate bed or extra bed where applicable.

Important Notes

Final child pricing will be confirmed at the time of quotation and booking based on the child’s exact age, travel date, room arrangement, hotel policy, cruise policy, domestic flight fare and other supplier conditions.

Golden Life Travel may request the child’s date of birth for flight tickets, hotel check-in, cruise registration or entrance fee verification.

General Notes

• Hotel check-in time is usually from 14:00, and check-out time is usually before 12:00.
• Early check-in and late check-out are subject to availability and may require extra charges.
• The itinerary may be adjusted depending on domestic flight schedules, weather, traffic and local operating conditions.
• Travel insurance is highly recommended for all guests.
• Guests are responsible for ensuring that their passports, visas and travel documents are valid before departure.

FAQ

1/ Who is this tour suitable for?

This tour is ideal for first-time visitors to Vietnam who want to experience the country’s classic highlights while discovering a quieter and more authentic coastal destination. It is suitable for couples, families with older children, small groups, cultural travellers, soft-adventure travellers and inbound partners looking for a unique Vietnam program.

2/ Why choose this Vietnam Highlights journey with Quy Nhon?

This journey combines Vietnam’s iconic destinations with Quy Nhon, an emerging coastal city known for pristine beaches, Champa heritage, Tay Son history, fishing villages and local life. It offers a more distinctive alternative to standard Vietnam highlight itineraries.

3/ Is Quy Nhon suitable for international travellers?

Yes. Quy Nhon is peaceful, scenic and culturally rich. It is especially suitable for travellers who enjoy less-crowded beaches, local food, heritage sites and authentic coastal experiences.

4/ Is the itinerary too rushed?

No. The tour is designed with a balanced pace. Day 4 includes an overnight stay in Hanoi after Ha Long Bay, helping guests avoid a rushed transfer and making the journey more comfortable before flying to Quy Nhon.

5/ What makes this tour culturally rich?

The tour connects Hanoi’s scholarly traditions, Ha Long Bay’s natural wonder, Quy Nhon’s Champa and Tay Son heritage, Saigon’s historic landmarks and the river life of the Mekong Delta.

6/ Can this tour be customised?

Yes. The itinerary can be adapted for private groups, families, senior travellers, corporate incentive groups or premium leisure guests. Hotel standard, meals, guide language, cruise level and local experiences can be adjusted upon request.

7/ When is the best time to travel?

This journey can operate year-round. March to May offers pleasant weather in northern and central Vietnam. September to November is a beautiful period for the north. December to April is generally good for southern Vietnam and international holiday travel.

For Quy Nhon beach activities, the best weather is usually from March to September. Sea activities may be adjusted depending on local weather and safety conditions.

8/ Are domestic flights included?

Domestic flights from Hanoi to Quy Nhon and Quy Nhon to Ho Chi Minh City can be included in the package. Final pricing depends on flight availability at the time of booking.

9/ Are Quy Nhon island activities guaranteed?

Island and boat activities in Quy Nhon depend on weather, sea conditions and local safety regulations. If sea conditions are not suitable, Golden Life Travel will arrange alternative coastal, cultural or city experiences.

10/ Is the Mekong Delta included?

Yes. The tour includes a Mekong Delta experience on Day 10, featuring waterways, local life, tropical gardens and regional food.

11/ Can Golden Life Travel arrange upgraded hotels or private services?

Yes. Golden Life Travel can arrange upgraded hotels, premium cruises, private guides, refined dining experiences, selected beach resorts in Quy Nhon and tailor-made local activities upon request.