Each of our trips is tailored to your personal interests and preferences. Below you will find a sample itinerary to inspire your own tailor-made trip.
Unveil Southeast Asia’s Best in 22 Days
Traveling is a fantastic way to add excitement and adventure to your life. If you're looking for a destination that offers history, culture, friendly faces, amazing food, stunning landscapes, pristine beaches, awe-inspiring caves, ancient ruins, and UNESCO World Heritage Sites, Indochina is the perfect choice.
Highlights of the trip
- Immerse yourself in the vibrant culture of Hanoi's bustling streets and ancient temples.
- Cycle through idyllic villages in Mai Chau, a serene escape from the city.
- Cruise the stunning waters of Halong Bay, a UNESCO World Heritage Site.
- Unravel the mysteries of the ancient city of Hue, once the imperial capital of Vietnam.
- Wander the charming streets of Hoi An, a well-preserved ancient town.
- Explore the intricate network of Cu Chi Tunnels, a testament to the Vietnam War.
- Sail through the lush Mekong Delta, a fertile riverine landscape.
- Witness the grandeur of Angkor Wat, one of the world's largest religious monuments.
- Discover the tranquility of Luang Prabang, a UNESCO World Heritage City.
Bespoke trips with Viland Travel
- Luxury accommodation throughout
- Privately guided tours
- Private transfers
- Meticulously selected experiences

Detailed itinerary
Day 1
Landing in Hanoi - Welcome dinner
Welcome to the vibrant city of Hanoi, the capital of Vietnam. Your private driver will meet you at the airport and take you to your centrally located hotel.
Enjoy a warm welcome dinner at a delightful local restaurant, set within a historic house in the heart of Hanoi's French Old Quarter. The meal is crafted by a renowned chef, celebrated for earning two silver and two bronze medals at the esteemed 2024 World Chef Competition, presented by the Queen of Malaysia.

Where you could stay
Day 2
Hanoi City Tour & Street Food Discovery
You’ll begin our journey at the Ly Thai To Statue, paying homage to the city’s founder and delving into its rich historical tapestry. Next, you’ll explore the iconic Ba Dinh Square, the birthplace of the Socialist Republic of Vietnam. You’ll admire the architectural marvels of the Ho Chi Minh Mausoleum, Uncle Ho’s stilt house, and the one-pillar pagoda.
Our journey continues to the Hanoi Saint Joseph Cathedral, a stunning neo-gothic masterpiece that reflects the French colonial influence. You’ll then venture down the vibrant Train Street, witnessing the harmonious blend of daily life and railway tracks.
To conclude our morning tour, you’ll unwind at a cozy local coffee shop, savoring a cup of Vietnam’s renowned coffee while reminiscing about the day’s experiences. Don’t forget to indulge in a delectable lunch of Cha Ca or Ngan Chay Toi!
Chill out all afternoon before your evening street food tour
Around 5:30pm: Start your walking tour at Hanoi’s largest covered market, Dong Xuan. Along the market’s perimeter, dozens of street hawkers sell a staggering variety of produce from live seafood to exotic fruits and spices. Your expert English-speaking local guide will give you an insight into the intricacies and traditions of Vietnamese food culture including details on the ingredients and historical backgrounds of popular northern dishes. Step out of the market and back onto the streets in search of more daily snacks of local which are displayed along the roadside. Stop to taste a piece of fresh spring roll or a crispy pancake before wandering through narrow streets to the corner with the full flavor of bun cha, fresh rice noodles with grilled pork. Continue to savor the Vietnamese dessert with traditional sweet cakes made from some kind of local herb or a little cup of fresh fruit mixed with greasy coconut milk. With a better understanding of Hanoi Street food, return to the hotel.

Where you could stay
Day 3
Hanoi - Mai Chau: visit hill tribes & home hosted dinner
After breakfast, meet back up with your private guide and driver. You’ll embark on a four-hour scenic drive through the stunning countryside, rolling green rice fields and breathtaking mountains. Your destination today is Mai Chau, a peaceful valley home to many of Vietnam’s 54 indigenous minority groups. It’s a world away from the hustle and bustle of Hanoi.
Arrive in Mai Chau around noon and check into the cozy Mai Chau Ecolodge. Surrounded by mountains and rice fields, this eco-friendly lodge is a tranquil escape where you can truly relax and recharge.
Afternoon, ride a bicycle to the remote villages, discovering the natural beauty of the valley and the culture of the ethnic minority Thai people on our visits to the Pom Coong and Na Phon villages.
Next, explore the awe-inspiring Mo Luong. This ancient cavern, millions of years in the making, is filled with otherworldly formations. Stalactites and stalagmites of every shape and size create a mesmerizing underground wonderland. If you're an adventure seeker, this is an experience you won't want to miss.
Tonight, you’ll dine with a local family and savor a delicious home-cooked meal. Indulge your taste buds with traditional dishes and sip on rice wine, a local specialty.
Return to your stay for relaxation. Have dinner and then enjoy a traditional dance and music performance by the villagers (if any).
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Day 4
Mai Chau valley - Buoc village - Hanoi
Once you arrive in Buoc Village, you'll have the opportunity to wander around and interact with the friendly locals. A local family will warmly welcome you into their stilt house, where you'll learn about their unique way of life, customs, and rich cultural heritage. To top it all off, they'll prepare a delicious homemade lunch for you to savor.
After lunch, say goodbye to your gracious hosts and embark on the four-hour journey back to Hanoi. You'll arrive at your hotel in the late afternoon, free to explore the city at your own pace.
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Where you could stay
Day 5
Hanoi - Halong Bay - overnight cruise
The day begins with a convenient hotel pick-up in your hotel at 7:45. Upon arrival at La Regina Royal’s waiting lounge in Bai Chay-Ha Long at 11:30 AM, you’ll be greeted with a welcome drink and a swift check-in process.
At 12:30 PM, embark on your cruise adventure with a refreshing welcome drink from the crew while the manager provides a safety briefing. As the boat sets sail, immerse yourself in the breathtaking beauty of Halong Bay.
Indulge in a delectable lunch set menu at 1 PM, kickstarting your culinary journey. At 3 PM, your first excursion awaits: a visit to Luon Cave, a serene spot perfect for kayaking or rowing boat. Afterward, explore Titov Island, where you can swim in its crystal-clear waters or hike to the summit for panoramic views of the bay.
Return to the cruise at 5 PM for relaxation. At 7 PM, savor a special dinner in the restaurant. Post-dinner, choose from a variety of activities: exciting squid fishing, rejuvenating spa treatments, lively karaoke sessions, or simply unwinding.
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Day 6
Halong - Hanoi - a pottery village - fly to Hue
At 7:30 AM, embark on a captivating journey to the awe-inspiring Sung Sot Cave. Marvel at the breathtaking panoramic views of the bay, a sight that will leave you speechless.
At 9 AM, bid farewell to your cabin and indulge in a delicious Vietnamese cuisine buffet at the restaurant as the boat cruises back to the harbor.
Your Halong Bay experience concludes at 11 AM with disembarkation at the harbor, leaving you with unforgettable memories of this natural wonder.
Meet your driver and transfer back to Noi Bai airport for an evening flight to Hue. There will be a stop en route to visit the Ancient Pottery Village of Phu Lang.
Upon arrival at Hue Airport, a new private guide and driver will pick you up and take you to your hotel in downtown Hue for check-in. The rest of the afternoon and evening will be free at your leisure.

Day 7
Hue: full-day city tour
Next, your guide will take you to the atmospheric Imperial Citadel, a vast complex that once housed the Imperial Palace and Forbidden Purple City, the former residence of the emperors and their families. During an hour’s leisurely walk, you'll admire the magnificent architecture and gardens while your guide shares fascinating stories about the royal court's history and intrigue.
Enjoy a delicious lunch at Les Jardins de La Carambole.
Afterward, you'll visit Vietnam's unique Ancient Colosseum, the "Tigers Arena". This historic site was used for thrilling battles between elephants and tigers, often organized for the entertainment of the royal family and the public.
Your tour continues to the Emperor Tu Duc Mausoleum, one of the most beautiful and picturesque architectural masterpieces of the Nguyen Dynasty. Despite its grand scale, this stunning mausoleum was completed in just three years and blends Asian and European styles.
Just a 10-minute drive from Hue's city center, Vong Canh Hill offers breathtaking panoramic views of both natural beauty and ancient relics. You can also explore the Van Nien Water Plant, the region's oldest water plant, designed by a French architect in an Oriental style. As you wander the hillside, you'll be rewarded with stunning vistas of the mountains. Cap off your day by enjoying a local beer while taking in the magnificent view of Hue city from the hilltop.

Day 8
Hue - day train to Da Nang - Hoi An - beach time
In the early afternoon, our driver will meet you in the hotel lobby and take you to Hue Station.
All aboard the Heritage Train! Over the next three hours, you'll witness breathtaking views of the Hải Vân Pass, often called a world wonder and one of the top 10 most beautiful drives by Travel + Leisure magazine. You'll see the Trường Sơn Mountain Range on one side and the ocean on the other. And as you journey from Huế to Đà Nẵng in the afternoon, you can catch a stunning sunset over Lăng Cô Bay, one of the world's most beautiful bays. Plus, don't miss the chance to try local delicacies.
The train arrives in Đà Nẵng. Our local driver will meet you at the train station and take you to your hotel in Hoi An.
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Day 9
Hoi An: Buffalo riding, cooking class & making lanterns
Visit a local fisherman's home to sample delicious coconut jam and tea and meet their friendly family. Immerse yourself in the serene beauty of the water palm coconut paradise, learning traditional fishing techniques like using unique fishing nets to catch fish and purple crabs. You'll also have a chance to paddle a traditional bamboo basket boat.
Engage with local farmers, helping them plow fields, prepare the land, and plant tender rice seedlings. From Tra Que Village, you'll continue your journey, paddling through palm-lined paths that wind through lush rice paddies. Along the way, you'll spot flocks of ducks splashing around in muddy banks and water buffalo lounging lazily in the shade. Your next stop is where the real fun begins riding a water buffalo through the rice paddies and soaking up the fresh air and stunning countryside views.
Savor a delicious lunch at Mr. Thanh's home, where you'll learn how to make fresh rice milk and cook traditional Hoi An pancakes (Banh Xeo).
Your day continues with a guided tour of Hoi An’s historic center. Explore the bustling Hoi An Market, a vibrant hub of colors and scents. Immerse yourself in the rich cultural heritage of the city by visiting the Phuc Kien Chinese Assembly Hall and admiring the intricate architecture of ancient houses like the Phung Hung or Tan Ky. Delve into the past at the Museum of Folk Culture and witness traditional performances at the Hoi An Traditional Performing Arts House.
After a leisurely stroll across the iconic Japanese Bridge, you’ll have the opportunity to discover local handicrafts and immerse yourself in the charming alleyways of Hoi An. As the day winds down, you’ll participate in a lantern-making class, crafting your own unique souvenir.
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Day 10
Hoi An: relax & chill on the beach
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Day 11
Fly to Ho Chi Minh City: Saigon jeep by night tour
Evening tour: Saigon Jeep by Night is a thrilling evening tour that takes you on an open-air jeep through the vibrant streets of Ho Chi Minh City. You’ll witness iconic landmarks like Ben Thanh Market and the Opera House, while immersing yourself in the city’s bustling nightlife.
The tour highlights the city’s delectable street food scene, with stops at famous local eateries. You’ll savor mouthwatering dishes like Banh Xeo (Vietnamese pancakes) and Gỏi cuốn (spring rolls), while learning about their culinary origins.
To top off the evening, you’ll head to a live music venue, where you can relax with a cocktail and enjoy the energetic performances of talented local artists. This tour offers a unique and unforgettable experience, showcasing the best of Ho Chi Minh City’s vibrant culture and nightlife.
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Where you could stay
Day 12
Ho Chi Minh City - Cu Chi Tunnels
If you are feeling brave, you can crawl inside the Cu Chi Tunnels to experience how difficult life must have been and discover the 3 underground levels. There will also be a chilling exhibition of the traps and weapons used against the American GIs. After visiting the Cu Chi Tunnels, head back to the city center for lunch. Spend the afternoon unwinding and recharging.
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Day 13
Mekong Delta: Ben Tre coconut town & Can Tho
Pick up at the hotel at 8 a.m., leave the busiest city, and start the trip to Ben Tre. On arrival at Ham Luong Pier (Ben Tre town), take a boat on the Ben Tre River – one of the tributaries of the Mekong River, and observe the lively activities along the river, such as fishing and water transfers.
Stop at brickwork to see how to make bricks in handy, traditional style by printing and baking. Visit one of the many coconut processing workshops located along the canal. Turn on the natural scissors creeks where they look smaller and smaller to go to the village. Take a walk to the family workshop to make sleep mats and enjoy some fruits and tea. Take a biking trip on shady paths, pass by green rice fields and vegetable plains to be able to touch real life, and find out about tropical culture from peasants.
Lunch at a local restaurant. Afternoon, take a rowboat along Water Palm Creek and cruise back to Hung Vuong Pier. Disembark and drive through endless rice fields to reach Can Tho.
Evening activity suggestion: Chill out tonight and do whatever sounds good. Maybe explore Can Tho's night market on your own and grab some local eats. The market streets are super lively, with tons of food stalls selling grilled meats, tofu skewers, and even Vietnamese pizza (bánh tráng nướng).
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Day 14
Mekong Delta: Floating Market & Chau Doc
Upon arrival, explore the bustling market, observing locals trading fruits, vegetables, and other goods from their boats. Enjoy a unique breakfast experience on a boat, surrounded by the lively atmosphere.
You will keep boating over to a noodle local house where you make your own rice paper and noodles guided by local people. Then, you'll cruise through serene canals, one of the ten most beautiful in Can Tho. As you glide past lush greenery and listen to the soothing sounds of nature, you'll feel a sense of tranquility. Encounter local life along the way, with friendly waves and greetings from the people. After a morning filled with discovery, you'll return to the hotel to prepare for your next destination, Chau Doc.
From Can Tho, you will take a scenic, three-hour drive to Chau Doc and explore the stunning Tra Su Forest & Bird Sanctuary. Once there, hop on a motorboat and cruise deep into the heart of the forest. Next, switch to a smaller sampan boat for a 15-minute journey through breathtaking natural sights. Then, visit the wild bird sanctuary, a serene spot blanketed in green duckweed. Finally, head to the observation post for a panoramic view of the forest and surrounding mountains.
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Day 15
Ride a speedboat to Phnom Penh: city tour & sunset cruise
Arrive in Phnom Penh and check into your downtown hotel. After a short break, you will head up to Wat Phnom Temple, the city's founding spot perched atop a small hill. From there, stroll along the riverfront to the historic Royal Palace, dating back to 1866. Inside, you'll find the stunning Silver Pagoda, named for its floor tiles made from over 5,000 silver plates. Originally called Wat Prakeo (Temple of the Emerald Buddha), it houses a mesmerizing collection of Buddha statues crafted from gold, silver, crystal, and bronze.
Next, explore the National Museum, a magnificent Khmer-style building. It boasts the world's finest collection of ancient Khmer art, archaeology, and religious artifacts spanning the 4th to 13th centuries. With over 5,000 pieces on display, it's a treasure trove of the kingdom's cultural heritage. And, as a quirky bonus, the roof is home to a large colony of bats!
As the day winds down, hop on a relaxing sunset river cruise. Watch Phnom Penh's vibrant riverfront come alive in the evening, and sip on a refreshing coconut juice as you soak up the atmosphere.
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Day 16
Phnom Penh: Visit Killing Fields & fly to Siem Reap
In the afternoon, you will take a 45-minute flight to Siem Reap, the city known as the “Gateway to Angkor.” On arrival, you will be met by a new private guide and driver and transferred directly to your hotel downtown.

Day 17
Siem Reap: visit Angkor Temples
One of the most curious things at Bayon Temple is the almost 200 smiling faces carved into the walls. Some carving details of the temple have been damaged by time and climate. However, the soul of this ancient Khmer architecture remains.
The afternoon tour gives you time to explore Angkor Wat, one of the Seven Wonders of the World. The temple architecture has been modeled after the great Meru Mountain of India. The highest central tower is 65 m, representing the legendary Mount Meru, and its five towers correspond to the peaks of Meru. The entire structure has been built from sandstone and honeycomb. The magic is that the giant blocks of stone are stacked on top of each other without any binders or reinforced concrete.
After touring, you get dropped off at your hotel.

Day 18
Siem Reap: Kulen elephant forest & Tone Sap lake
Your adventure begins with a scenic drive to the park. Upon arrival, gain insights into the lives of elephants during a short briefing. Get up close and personal with these magnificent creatures, observing their natural behaviors and even taking a leisurely walk with them through the forest.
Following your encounter with the elephants, continue your journey to Kompong Phluk, one of the most picturesque and underrated villages on Tonle Sap Lake. Explore the unique lifestyle of the locals as you cruise past stilted houses and vibrant floating markets. Cap off your day with a serene canoe ride through the enchanting, flooded forests.

Day 19
Siem Reap - fly to Luang Prabang
When you land at Luang Prabang Airport, be ready for your Laotian Visa on Arrival. You'll need two passport-sized photos and $40 cash for the stamping fee. Once you clear customs, your private guide and driver will be waiting to greet you and take you to your hotel. The rest of the day is yours to relax and unwind

Day 20
Luang Prabang: visit the ancient town
After breakfast, your city tour begins with a visit to the magnificent Wat Xiengthong, a superb piece of Laos’ architectural temple, which presents a sweeping two-tiered roof and ornate mosaics, including a beautiful tree of life, glass montage on the rear temple wall. Next, you will visit the Royal Palace Museum, which was built in 1904 during the French colonial era for King Sisavang Vong and his family.
Enjoy lunch at Tamarind, offering some of the best local food in Luang Prabang. Drive along the Mekong to the Traditional Arts & Ethnology Centre to explore the rich diversity of Laos’ ethnic minorities with many traditional costumes, tools, and artifacts on display. In the late afternoon, you conquer the top of Mount Phousi for an enjoyable exploration of a gilded stupa and a panoramic sunset view of the city and the Mekong River.
The dinner will be at the local restaurant with traditional dance & folk songs, the best way to experience Lao culture. The tour ends after a visit to the famous Night Market, where you can find a lovely selection of handmade textiles made by local and hill tribe people surrounding Luang Prabang.

Day 21
Luang Prabang: visit Kuangsi waterfalls & Pak Ou Cave
After having lunch at a local restaurant, you will cross the Mekong River again by boat and continue with a drive downriver for 1.5 hours to the famous Kuang Si Waterfall, one of the most spectacular swimming holes on the continent. The jungle around the waterfall remains lush and beautiful year-round. The waterfall cycles between placid, turquoise waters during the dry season to the impressive, roaring falls during the rainy season.
Before taking a dip in the beautiful Kuangsi Falls, you will get a behind the scenes experience with the team from Free the Bears. This sanctuary rescues and rehabilitates sun, moon, and sloth bears from bile farms.
Transfer to an organic farm where you experience the new Lao Buffalo dairy that produces cheese and a range of delicious dairy products. The diary provides income and a sustainable future for the Lao people involved. Learn how to milk a Buffalo, cuddle a Buffalo for the perfect selfie and try some incredible ice cream.
You will end this full day with a return drive to Luang Prabang late afternoon. Stop en route to see the popular Whiskey Village and sample the locally made Lao Lao.

Day 22
Luang Prabang - departure

Why travel with Viland?

Crafted with you in mind
Each journey begins with listening. We design experiences that reflect your pace, your passions, and the stories you wish to uncover. With thoughtful guidance and care, every detail is curated just for you.

Authentic experiences
Our trips are crafted by a team who truly knows the destinations - from seasoned travel designers to local guides with years of on-the-ground experience. They bring you beyond what the normal booked guides always do, to places and stories only insiders can show. Every detail is personal, every moment is one of a kind.

Leave a Positive Trace
Every Viland luxury journey is designed with care - for people and the planet. By choosing local partners, supporting community-led projects, and prioritizing low-impact travel, you help preserve cultures and natural beauty for generations to come.
- Day 1 Hanoi
- Day 2 Hanoi
- Day 3 Mai Chau
- Day 4 Hanoi
- Day 5 Halong Bay
- Day 6 Halong Bay
- Day 7 Hue
- Day 8 Hoi An
- Day 9 Hoi An
- Day 10 Hoi An
- Day 11 Ho Chi Minh City
- Day 12 Cu Chi Tunnel
- Day 13 Mekong Delta
- Day 14 Mekong Delta
- Day 15 Phnom Penh
- Day 16 Phnom Penh
- Day 17 Siem Reap - Angkor Complex - Tonle Sap Lake
- Day 18 Siem Reap - Angkor Complex - Tonle Sap Lake
- Day 19 Luang Prabang
- Day 20 Luang Prabang
- Day 21 Luang Prabang
- Day 22 Luang Prabang
- Day 1 Hanoi
- Day 2 Hanoi
- Day 3 Mai Chau
- Day 4 Hanoi
- Day 5 Halong Bay
- Day 6 Halong Bay
- Day 7 Hue
- Day 8 Hoi An
- Day 9 Hoi An
- Day 10 Hoi An
- Day 11 Ho Chi Minh City
- Day 12 Cu Chi Tunnel
- Day 13 Mekong Delta
- Day 14 Mekong Delta
- Day 15 Phnom Penh
- Day 16 Phnom Penh
- Day 17 Siem Reap - Angkor Complex - Tonle Sap Lake
- Day 18 Siem Reap - Angkor Complex - Tonle Sap Lake
- Day 19 Luang Prabang
- Day 20 Luang Prabang
- Day 21 Luang Prabang
- Day 22 Luang Prabang