Suggested Independent Vietnam Itineraries

 

 

Ideal for travellers pushed for time, this independent Vietnam itinerary packs the country's cultural highlights into a small timeframe. Wander wide-eyed through the lively streets of old Hanoi and sleep on a traditional Chinese junk in bewitching Halong Bay. Fly to fascinating Hoi An, with its French background lingering in the streets. While you're in Hoi An, head for the virtually abandoned stretch of sandy beach, or let a local tailor fit you up for a suit. This Vietnam itinerary ends with four days in former Saigon (Ho Chi Minh City), crawling through the spooky Cu Chi Tunnels and watching local life in the Mekong Delta as you drift lazily by.

Click here for a full description of this independent Vietnam itinerary.

 

Northern Vietnam is a treasure trove for travellers, containing a heady mix of ancient culture and undisturbed scenery. During this independent Vietnam itinerary, you'll sail leisurely through the island labyrinth of Halong Bay, visiting hidden caves filled with limestone stalagmites and stalactites. You'll then travel into the far north where traditional hill tribes live in a remote region with emerald terraced mountainsides. At Ninh Binh, you'll row through between rice paddy fields, passing mighty rock formations, and watching local boatmen row using only their feet. As a finishing touch to this Vietnam itinerary, you'll climb to the Perfume Pagoda, standing impressively in a cave on a mountain peak. You'll also have plenty of time to fall in love with Hanoi as you wander around its Old Quarter.

Click here for a full description of this independent Vietnam itinerary.

This independent Vietnam itinerary combines the country's classic highlights with a few laid back days in the sun-kissed paradise of Palm Island. Unlike many of our other itineraries, you'll begin in the south of the country and travel slowly north towards the remote mountain wilderness of the hill tribes. Your Vietnam itinerary will start in Ho Chi Minh, taking you into the lush Mekong Delta and the infamous Cu Chi Tunnels. You'll then spend 3 days on idyllic Palm Island, soaking up the sun while you sip on fresh fruit juice (or perhaps even something a little stronger). After recharging your batteries, you'll fly to Hoi An, where you'll be instantly charmed by the old world ambience and get measured up for a suit. You'll then drift lazily among the magical islands of Halong Bay, before arriving at your final stop- the lively Old Quarter of Hanoi.

Click here for a full description of this independent Vietnam itinerary.

This independent Vietnam itinerary is a mixed cocktail, containing all of our favourite experiences. It begins in the lively Old Quarter of Hanoi, followed by a magical cruise between the tiny islands of Halong Bay. Moving south, you'll visit enchanting Hoi An, an authentic port town crammed with enthusiastic tailors and cosy cafes. Here, you can spend a few hours snoozing on the quiet golden beach. You'll then continue your journey to the highlights of the south: Ho Chi Minh City, the Cu Chi Tunnels and the Mekong Delta. This Vietnam itinerary finishes on tropical Phu Quoc Island for a little sun, sea, hammocks and cold beer. Perfect. 

Click here for a full description of this independent Vietnam itinerary.
 

Discover Vietnam in true local style, riding the railway from place to place. Trains in Vietnam are efficient, reasonably comfortable, and endlessly interesting. They are a great way to meet local people and get chatting with other travellers. This independent Vietnam itinerary begins in the south, taking in the cultural riches of the region- bustling Ho Chi Minh City, the narrow waterways of the exotic Mekong Delta and the eerie Cu Chi Tunnels. You'll then take the train to Nha Trang, passing through on your way to the ivory sands of tropical Palm Island. After a few days of relaxation, your train will weave its way north to Hoi An, a mesmerising town of tailors with huge local charm. You'll then fly north for a junk boat trip through spellbinding Halong Bay, and an incredible overnight homestay with a mountain hill tribe. This Vietnam itinerary ends in the fascinating city of Hanoi, with its wide tree-lined boulevards and quirky cafes. 

Click here for a full description of this independent Vietnam itinerary.

This is a comprehensive independent Vietnam itinerary, giving you a glimpse of the many faces of Vietnam. You'll explore the lively Old Quarter of Hanoi before drifting through the azure waters of Halong Bay. Then you'll get active, hiking to the hill tribes around mountainous Sapa and climbing up to an authentic pagoda. After this, the itinerary flies you south to the historic town of Hué and the eager tailors of enchanting Hoi An. From here, you'll head for the charming chaos of Saigon (Ho Chi Minh City), to explore the dazzling Mekong Delta and the haunting Cu Chi tunnels. To finish off your Vietnam itinerary, you'll kick off your flip-flops on a white sandy beach at peaceful Mui Ne, to unwind with a cocktail and reflect upon your journey.

Click here for a full description of this independent Vietnam itinerary.