13-Day Vietnam Express Train Journey: South to North

Join me on an unforgettable 13-day adventure through Vietnam, exploring vibrant landscapes and rich culture from Ho Chi Minh City to Hanoi. This journey promises a blend of breathtaking scenery, historical landmarks, and cultural experiences.

Itinerary Highlights:

Day 1: Arrival in Ho Chi Minh City

• Group Meeting: Welcome your travel companions at 6 PM.
• Dinner: Enjoy a delectable meal at a renowned local restaurant, savoring authentic Vietnamese dishes like pho and banh xeo.
• Overnight: Rest at your hotel, preparing for the adventures ahead.

Day 2: Full-Day Mekong Delta & Night Train to Nha Trang

• Mekong Delta Tour: Cruise along the lush waterways, visit local villages, and experience traditional fishing methods.
• Cultural Experience: Enjoy a folk music performance and sample fresh tropical fruits at vibrant local markets.
• Night Train: Board the night train to Nha Trang for a scenic overnight journey along the coast.

Day 3: Nha Trang (Free Day) with Optional Tours

• Explore Nha Trang: Relax on stunning beaches or dive into the vibrant local nightlife.
• Optional Tour: Join a full-day snorkeling boat tour to discover the underwater beauty of Nha Trang’s coral reefs.
• Activities Include: Snorkeling, swimming, and sunbathing on pristine beaches.
• Overnight: Unwind in Nha Trang.

Day 4: Nha Trang to Hoi An

• Scenic Day Train Journey: Travel from Nha Trang to Da Nang, enjoying breathtaking coastal and mountain views.
• Transfer to Hoi An: Arrive in the charming ancient town, a UNESCO World Heritage Site known for its well-preserved architecture.
• Evening at Leisure: Stroll through lantern-lit streets and relax at a riverside café.
• Overnight: Stay in Hoi An.

Day 5: Hoi An City Tour & Free Afternoon

• Guided City Tour: Visit iconic sites, including the Japanese Covered Bridge and the bustling Ancient Town.
• Free Afternoon: Explore Hoi An at your own pace—consider a cooking class or relax at An Bang Beach.
• Overnight: Enjoy another night in this picturesque town.

Day 6: Free Day with Optional Tour to My Son Sanctuary

• Discover My Son Sanctuary: Optional tour to explore the ancient ruins of this Cham civilization site surrounded by lush jungle.
• Free Time in Hoi An: Alternatively, enjoy a leisurely day discovering more of Hoi An’s hidden gems.
• Overnight: Relax in Hoi An.

Day 7: Free Morning & Afternoon Bus to Hue

• Morning at Leisure: Enjoy shopping or visiting nearby beaches.
• Afternoon Transfer: Board a bus to Hue, the former imperial capital of Vietnam.
• Overnight: Check into your hotel and rest for the next day’s explorations.

Day 8: Hue Imperial City Full-Day Tour

• Explore Hue’s Rich History: Visit the Imperial City, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, and experience its stunning architecture.
• Thien Mu Pagoda: Discover this iconic pagoda overlooking the Perfume River.
• Royal Tombs: Visit the elaborate tombs of Nguyen emperors, including the Tomb of Khai Dinh and the Tomb of Minh Mang.
• Overnight: Enjoy a peaceful night in Hue.

Day 9: Free Day in Hue & Night Train to Hanoi

• Leisure Day: Explore local markets, enjoy traditional meals, or take a boat ride on the Perfume River.
• Night Train: In the evening, board the night train to Hanoi, relaxing and preparing for the next leg of your journey.

Day 10: Hanoi City Tour

• Explore the Capital: Discover key attractions like Hoan Kiem Lake, Ngoc Son Temple, and the vibrant Old Quarter.
• Cultural Experiences: Visit the Vietnam Museum of Ethnology and enjoy a traditional water puppet show in the evening.
• Overnight: Rest in Hanoi.

Day 11: Ha Long Bay Day Trip

• Cruise Through Ha Long Bay: Embark on a day trip to this UNESCO World Heritage Site known for its emerald waters and limestone islands.
• Activities Include: Cruising on a traditional junk boat, exploring caves, and swimming in the bay.
• Lunch on Board: Savor fresh seafood while taking in stunning scenery.
• Return to Hanoi: Head back for a restful night.

Day 12: Ha Long Bay to Hanoi & Free Day

• Morning in Ha Long Bay: Enjoy a leisurely morning before returning to Hanoi.
• Free Day: Explore more of Hanoi, visit local markets, or try street food at your leisure.

Day 13: Farewell Day

• Explore Hanoi: Spend your final day discovering more of the city.
• Optional Day Tour to Ninh Binh: For those seeking adventure, consider this tour known for its stunning landscapes and ancient temples.
• Evening Farewell Dinner: Gather for a farewell dinner with your travel group to reflect on your incredible journey through Vietnam.

Join Me!

Experience Vietnam’s beauty, culture, and history while enjoying the comfort of the Express Train. This journey promises to create lasting memories as we traverse the heart of Vietnam together. Don’t miss out on this remarkable adventure!