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

Tour code: GLT-VNHL-HLQPMS-12D
Duration: 12 Days / 11 Nights
Route: Hanoi → Ha Long Bay → Hanoi → Quy Nhon → Pleiku → Ho Chi Minh City → Mekong Delta → Ho Chi Minh City
Tour Style: Classic Vietnam Highlights | Coastal Heritage | Central Highlands Culture | Local Experience | Private Tailor-Made Tour.
Recommended For: International first-time visitors to Vietnam who want more than the standard route.
Private groups, families, senior travelers and cultural travelers.
B2B partners looking for a fresh Vietnam program with authentic local depth.
Travelers interested in heritage, coastal landscapes, coffee culture, local life and regional identity.
Guests who want to combine famous destinations with emerging destinations such as Quy Nhon and Pleiku.

Overview

This 12-day Vietnam Highlights journey is designed for travelers who want to experience Vietnam beyond the usual route. The itinerary begins in Hanoi, Vietnam’s graceful capital, continues to the legendary seascape of Ha Long Bay, then moves south to Quy Nhon, a peaceful coastal city known for its beaches, Cham heritage and local lifestyle.

From Quy Nhon, the journey rises into the Central Highlands to Pleiku, where guests discover coffee culture, volcanic landscapes, highland villages and the soulful rhythm of local life. The tour then continues to Ho Chi Minh City, Vietnam’s dynamic southern metropolis, before ending with a gentle discovery of the Mekong Delta.

This is not only a classic Vietnam tour. It is a journey through many layers of the country: capital culture, natural wonders, coastal heritage, highland identity, southern energy and river life.

Tour Highlights

• Explore Hanoi’s Old Quarter, cultural landmarks and local lifestyle.
• Cruise through the limestone karsts of Ha Long Bay.
• Discover Quy Nhon, one of Vietnam’s most charming emerging coastal destinations.
• Visit Cham heritage sites and experience the cultural depth of Central Vietnam.
• Travel from the sea to the highlands on the Quy Nhon – Pleiku route.
• Enjoy a Central Highlands coffee experience in Pleiku.
• Discover local villages, nature, lakes and cultural landscapes in Gia Lai.
• Explore Ho Chi Minh City’s historic and modern highlights.
• Experience the peaceful waterways and local life of the Mekong Delta.
• Travel with a well-paced itinerary designed for comfort, culture and authentic experiences.

DETAILED ITINERARY

Day 1: Arrival in Hanoi

Upon arrival at Noi Bai International Airport, guests are welcomed by the local guide and transferred to the hotel in Hanoi.

Depending on arrival time, guests may enjoy free time to rest or take a gentle walk around the Old Quarter, Hoan Kiem Lake or nearby streets to feel the first rhythm of Vietnam’s capital.

Hanoi is a city of layered memories: ancient temples, French colonial architecture, tree-lined boulevards, street food aromas and the quiet elegance of daily life.

Overnight: Hanoi
Meals: No meals / Dinner optional depending on arrival time

Day 2: Hanoi City Tour

After breakfast, begin a full-day exploration of Hanoi.

Suggested visits may include the Ho Chi Minh Mausoleum Complex from outside, the Presidential Palace area, One Pillar Pagoda, Temple of Literature and one of the city’s meaningful museums depending on guest interest.

In the afternoon, discover the Old Quarter by walking or cyclo ride. The Old Quarter is the living heart of Hanoi, where each street still carries traces of traditional crafts, old trading families and the city’s merchant culture.

The day may end with a traditional water puppet show or a relaxed dinner featuring northern Vietnamese cuisine.

Overnight: Hanoi
Meals: Breakfast, Lunch

Day 3: Hanoi – Ha Long Bay Cruise

After breakfast, depart from Hanoi to Ha Long Bay.

Upon arrival, board the cruise and begin the journey through one of Vietnam’s most iconic natural landscapes. Ha Long Bay is known for thousands of limestone islands rising from emerald waters, creating a seascape that feels both majestic and peaceful.

Guests enjoy lunch on board while cruising through the bay. Depending on the cruise program, activities may include visiting a cave, kayaking, swimming, relaxing on the sundeck or joining a sunset activity.

Dinner is served on board.

Overnight: Cruise in Ha Long Bay
Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner

Day 4: Ha Long Bay – Hanoi

Wake up early to enjoy the peaceful morning atmosphere of the bay. Guests may join a light Tai Chi session on the sundeck or simply enjoy the sunrise over the limestone islands.

After breakfast or brunch on board, the cruise continues before returning to the pier. Disembark and drive back to Hanoi.

The rest of the day is free for relaxation or optional shopping in Hanoi.

Overnight: Hanoi
Meals: Breakfast / Brunch

Day 5: Hanoi – Fly to Quy Nhon

After breakfast, transfer to the airport for the flight to Quy Nhon.

Upon arrival at Phu Cat Airport, meet the local guide and transfer to the hotel or resort in Quy Nhon.

Quy Nhon is a beautiful coastal city in Central Vietnam, still peaceful, graceful and less crowded than many famous beach destinations. It offers a rare combination of blue sea, Cham heritage, fishing villages, local cuisine and a warm sense of authenticity.

Free time to relax by the beach or explore the city at leisure.

Overnight: Quy Nhon
Meals: Breakfast

Day 6: Quy Nhon Beach & Coastal Discovery

After breakfast, enjoy a day exploring the coastal beauty of Quy Nhon.

Suggested experiences may include visiting Ky Co, Eo Gio, Hon Kho or a local fishing village depending on weather, sea conditions and guest preference.

Guests may enjoy beach time, fresh seafood, scenic coastal views and a gentle encounter with the daily life of local fishing communities.

Quy Nhon’s charm does not come from noise or mass tourism. It comes from its quiet coastline, its fresh sea breeze, its honest food and the feeling that Vietnam still has places where beauty remains natural.

Overnight: Quy Nhon
Meals: Breakfast, Lunch

Day 7: Quy Nhon Heritage & Cham Culture

After breakfast, spend the day discovering Quy Nhon’s cultural and historical depth.

Suggested visits may include Cham towers such as Banh It Tower, Twin Towers or Duong Long Towers, depending on the final route. These ancient brick towers are among the most important remains of Champa civilization in Central Vietnam.

The journey may also include a visit to a traditional martial arts site, a local pagoda, a craft village or a historical site related to the Tay Son movement.

This day helps guests understand that Quy Nhon is not only a beach destination. It is a land of heritage, spirit, resilience and cultural memory.

Overnight: Quy Nhon
Meals: Breakfast, Lunch

Day 8: Quy Nhon – Pleiku / From the Sea to the Central Highlands

After breakfast, depart from Quy Nhon to Pleiku by road.

The route from Quy Nhon to Pleiku is one of the most meaningful transitions in this journey: from the blue sea of the Central Coast to the green highlands of Gia Lai. The landscape gradually changes from coastal plains to mountain passes, forests, plantations and basaltic highland scenery.

Upon arrival in Pleiku, check in at the hotel and enjoy some time to rest.

Depending on timing, guests may visit Bien Ho Lake, also known as T’Nung Lake, a volcanic lake often described as the “eyes of Pleiku”. The lake offers a calm and poetic introduction to the Central Highlands.

Overnight: Pleiku
Meals: Breakfast, Lunch

Day 9: Pleiku Coffee Experience & Central Highlands Culture

After breakfast, begin a full-day discovery of Pleiku and Gia Lai’s highland culture.

The day focuses on coffee, nature and local identity. Guests may visit a coffee farm, learn about the journey from coffee trees to roasted beans, understand the importance of basaltic soil, and enjoy a guided tasting experience.

Depending on the final arrangement, the program may include:

• Coffee farm visit
• Coffee processing introduction
• Coffee tasting experience
• Local village visit
• Cultural exchange with local community
• Visit to natural or spiritual landmarks around Pleiku

Pleiku is not a destination of grand noise. Its beauty is slower, deeper and more emotional. It is found in the red soil, the smell of coffee, the sound of wind through pine trees, and the quiet dignity of highland communities.

Overnight: Pleiku
Meals: Breakfast, Lunch

Day 10: Pleiku – Fly to Ho Chi Minh City

After breakfast, transfer to Pleiku Airport for the flight to Ho Chi Minh City.

Upon arrival, meet the guide and transfer to the hotel.

In the afternoon, enjoy a city orientation tour depending on flight time. Suggested visits may include Notre Dame Cathedral from outside, Central Post Office, Reunification Palace, Nguyen Hue Walking Street, Ben Thanh Market or other city landmarks.

Ho Chi Minh City is energetic, fast-moving and full of contrasts. It carries the memory of old Saigon while constantly moving toward the future.

Overnight: Ho Chi Minh City
Meals: Breakfast

Day 11: Mekong Delta Day Trip

After breakfast, depart for the Mekong Delta.

The Mekong Delta is a world of rivers, canals, fruit gardens, local boats and gentle rural life. Guests may enjoy a boat trip, visit local workshops, taste tropical fruits, walk through village paths and learn about daily life along the waterways.

Lunch is served with local specialties.

In the afternoon, return to Ho Chi Minh City.

Overnight: Ho Chi Minh City
Meals: Breakfast, Lunch

Day 12: Ho Chi Minh City Departure

Breakfast at the hotel.

Free time until transfer to Tan Son Nhat International Airport for the departure flight.

End of services.

Meals: Breakfast

PRICE GUIDE

Price

The tour price depends on travel dates, group size, hotel category, cruise selection, domestic flight availability and service level.

Golden Life Travel can provide customized quotations for FIT guests, private groups, family groups, senior groups, MICE groups and B2B partners.

Suggested Service Levels

1. Standard Comfort Package

Suitable for travelers who want a well-organized Vietnam tour with comfortable accommodation, essential sightseeing and good value.

Includes:

• 3-star or selected boutique hotels
• Standard Ha Long Bay cruise
• Private airport transfers
• Local English-speaking guides
• Private vehicle for sightseeing
• Main entrance fees as mentioned
• Meals as listed in the itinerary

2. Signature Experience Package

Suitable for travelers who want a more refined experience with better hotels, smoother services and more local depth.

Includes:

• 4-star hotels or charming boutique properties
• Selected quality Ha Long Bay cruise
• Private airport transfers
• Experienced English-speaking guides
• Private vehicle for sightseeing
• Enhanced local experiences in Quy Nhon and Pleiku
• Meals as listed in the itinerary
• Better restaurant selection where available

3. Premium Tailor-Made Package

Suitable for high-end travelers, private families, special-interest groups or guests who value privacy, comfort and curated experiences.

Includes:

• 5-star hotels, luxury resorts or premium boutique properties where available
• Premium Ha Long Bay cruise
• Private airport transfers
• Senior English-speaking guides
• Private vehicle throughout sightseeing days
• Curated local experiences in Quy Nhon and Pleiku
• Selected premium dining experiences
• Flexible pacing and personalized adjustments
• Special arrangement for anniversaries, VIP guests or high-value groups upon request

Price Includes

• Accommodation in selected hotels based on twin or double sharing.
• Overnight cruise in Ha Long Bay based on selected cruise category.
• Daily breakfast at hotels.
• Meals as mentioned in the itinerary.
• Private airport transfers.
• Private transportation for sightseeing as mentioned.
• English-speaking local guides.
• Entrance fees for included sightseeing places.
• Boat trips or local experiences as mentioned in the confirmed itinerary.
• Domestic flight arrangement support if requested.
• Drinking water during sightseeing days.
• Service charges and local taxes where applicable.

Price Excludes

• International air tickets.
• Domestic air tickets unless specifically included in the quotation.
• Visa fees and visa arrangement fees.
• Travel insurance.
• Personal expenses.
• Drinks during meals unless clearly mentioned.
• Early check-in and late check-out.
• Optional tours and activities not mentioned in the confirmed itinerary.
• Tips for guides, drivers, cruise staff and hotel porters.
• Bank transfer fees or payment transaction fees.
• Any services not clearly mentioned in the inclusion list.

POLICIES

Accommodation

Hotel rooms are based on twin or double sharing. Triple rooms, family rooms, connecting rooms or extra beds are subject to availability and hotel policy.

Hotel names will be confirmed at the quotation stage. If a listed hotel is unavailable, Golden Life Travel will arrange an alternative property of similar standard where possible.

Standard 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 surcharge.

Meals

Meals are arranged as mentioned in the itinerary.

Vietnamese cuisine is the main dining experience throughout the journey, with selected local specialties in each destination. Special dietary requests such as vegetarian meals, food allergies or religious dietary requirements should be advised at the time of booking.

Golden Life Travel will do its best to support dietary requests, but final availability may depend on local restaurants, cruise operators and regional conditions.

Domestic Flights

This itinerary includes domestic flight sectors such as Hanoi – Quy Nhon and Pleiku – Ho Chi Minh City.

Domestic airfares are subject to availability and airline conditions at the time of booking. Flight schedules may change depending on the airline, weather, operational conditions or government regulations.

If domestic flights are included in the final quotation, ticket conditions will follow the rules of the selected airline.

Payment Policy

A deposit of 30% of the total tour value is required to confirm the booking.

The remaining balance must be paid 30 days before departure.

For bookings made within 30 days before departure, full payment is required upon confirmation.

For services such as domestic flights, train tickets, cruises, peak-season hotels, special events, private shows or other supplier-controlled services, additional payment conditions may apply according to supplier policy.

All bank charges, transfer fees or payment transaction fees are to be paid by the client unless otherwise agreed in writing.

Cancellation & Refund Policy

Cancellation charges are calculated based on the date Golden Life Travel receives the written cancellation request.

Suggested cancellation conditions:

• 45 days or more before departure: Deposit may be refundable after deducting bank fees, administrative fees and any non-refundable supplier charges.
• 30–44 days before departure: 30% of total tour value may be charged.
• 15–29 days before departure: 50% of total tour value may be charged.
• 7–14 days before departure: 75% of total tour value may be charged.
• Less than 7 days before departure or no-show: 100% of total tour value may be charged.

Non-refundable services may include domestic flights, train tickets, cruise bookings, peak-season hotels, special event tickets, private shows, visa services and any supplier non-refundable items.

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

Booking Changes

Booking changes are subject to availability and supplier conditions.

Any change in travel date, hotel, room type, flight, cruise, meal, guide, vehicle, itinerary or group size may result in additional charges.

Golden Life Travel will always try to support reasonable changes, but changes cannot be guaranteed once services have been confirmed.

Force Majeure, Weather & Operational Changes

In case of force majeure events such as severe weather, storms, natural disasters, flight delays or cancellations, cruise suspension, road conditions, government regulations, security issues, epidemic situations or circumstances beyond control, the itinerary may need to be adjusted.

Golden Life Travel will assist in arranging the best possible alternative solution. Any additional cost caused by such changes will be paid by the client unless otherwise covered by supplier policy or travel insurance.

Refunds, if any, will depend on supplier conditions.

Children Policy

For inbound tours, Golden Life Travel recommends a clear and safe child policy to avoid misunderstanding and operational risk.

Suggested child policy:

• Children under 2 years old: Usually free of charge for land services when sharing existing bedding with parents. Parents are responsible for all actual costs incurred for the child, including airfare, baby cot, meals, entrance fees, cruise fees or other supplier charges if applicable.
• Children from 2 to under 11 years old: Usually charged 75% of adult tour price when sharing bed with parents.
• Children from 2 to under 11 years old requiring an extra bed or separate bed: Usually charged 85%–95% of adult tour price, depending on hotel, cruise and supplier conditions.
• Children from 11 years old and above: Charged as adults.

Final child pricing depends on age, rooming arrangement, hotel policy, cruise policy, airline rules and supplier conditions at the time of booking.

Travel Insurance

Travel insurance is not included unless specifically mentioned in the quotation.

Golden Life Travel strongly recommends that all guests purchase comprehensive travel insurance covering medical expenses, trip cancellation, flight delays, baggage loss, personal accident and emergency evacuation where applicable.

FAQ

1. Who is this 12-day Vietnam tour suitable for?

This tour is suitable for first-time visitors who want to see Vietnam’s main highlights while also experiencing less crowded destinations such as Quy Nhon and Pleiku. It is ideal for travelers who enjoy culture, nature, heritage, local food and authentic regional experiences.

2. What makes this tour different from a normal Vietnam highlights tour?

Most Vietnam highlights tours focus only on Hanoi, Ha Long Bay, Hoi An, Ho Chi Minh City and the Mekong Delta. This itinerary adds Quy Nhon and Pleiku, giving guests a deeper experience of Central Vietnam, Cham heritage, coastal life and Central Highlands culture.

3. Is Quy Nhon worth visiting for international travelers?

Yes. Quy Nhon is one of Vietnam’s most charming emerging coastal destinations. It offers beautiful beaches, local seafood, Cham towers, fishing villages and a peaceful atmosphere that feels more authentic and less commercial than many crowded beach cities.

4. Why include Pleiku in the itinerary?

Pleiku gives travelers a rare opportunity to experience the Central Highlands of Vietnam. It is known for coffee culture, volcanic landscapes, highland villages, lakes, pine forests and the unique cultural identity of Gia Lai.

5. Is this itinerary too tiring?

The itinerary is designed with a balanced pace. It combines sightseeing days, travel days and relaxation time. However, Golden Life Travel can adjust the pace, hotel standard and number of activities depending on guest age, travel style and group condition.

6. Can this tour be customized?

Yes. This tour can be customized for private travelers, families, senior groups, luxury travelers, B2B partners or special-interest groups. The route, hotels, meals, activities and service level can be adjusted upon request.

7. What is the best time to take this tour?

The tour can operate year-round, but the best time depends on travel preference. Generally, the dry season is more suitable for beach activities and outdoor sightseeing. For Quy Nhon and Pleiku, weather and seasonal conditions should be checked before finalizing travel dates.

8. Are domestic flights included?

Domestic flights can be included or quoted separately depending on the package. Airfares depend on availability, travel date and airline conditions at the time of booking.

9. Is this tour suitable for families with children?

Yes. The tour can be suitable for families, especially if the pace is adjusted. For children, room arrangement, meal needs, flight timing and long transfer sections should be carefully planned.

10. Why book this tour with Golden Life Travel?

Golden Life Travel is a Vietnam DMC with deep local expertise in Quy Nhon, Gia Lai, Central Vietnam and cultural travel experiences. The company designs journeys with strong destination insight, local connection and operational care, helping travelers discover Vietnam with more depth, comfort and meaning.