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Vietnam Classic

15 Day Tour

Home » Tours » Vietnam » Vietnam Classic – 15 Day Tour

Classic 12 Days

Route

Ho Chi Minh > Hanoi

Days

15

From

?
AU $3095

Currency

$2,145 (US) , £1,625 , €1,895

Days

15

Route

Ho Chi Minh > Hanoi

Trip Rating

From

AU $3095
?

Currency

$2,145 (US) , £1,625 , €1,895
Hikers on a trail through the rice terraces of Sapa
Limited time discount Vietnam Classic 15 Day Tour
Checkout code
Depart: 21 Dec to 28 Dec 2026
15% off
From $3,095 From AU$2,630.75
Checkout code

Trip Overview

One Life Adventures' Tour style 'Classic' icon
Stay in a local village family house, join a traditional cooking class, take part in a hands-on soap-making workshop, and experience the breathtaking beauty of Sapa. Along the way, you’ll explore all the sights, smells, and tastes that make Vietnam unforgettable.
Vietnam 15 Day Tour Itinerary Map One Life Adventures

Deposit AU$350

Secure your spot with a deposit 60+ days before your tour

Group

Maximum group size 22 people*

Health & Safety

Standards & Protocols

Deposit AU$350

Secure your spot with a deposit 60+ days before your tour

Route

Ho Chi Minh > Hanoi

Stays

14 nights of accommodation

Meals

10x Breakfasts, 6x Lunches, 6x Dinners

Transport

All transport Day 1 to 14

Activities

26 included over 7 locations

Crew

Your OLA tour guide, your drivers & your local guides

Route

Ho Chi Minh > Hanoi

Stays

14 nights of accommodation

Meals

10x Breakfasts, 6x Lunches, 6x Dinners

Transport

All transport Day 1 to 14

Activities

26 included over 7 locations

Crew

Your OLA tour guide, your drivers & your local guides

Looking for a trip that’s all about culture, adventure, and making real memories? Our 15-day Vietnam tour is the one. You’ll kick things off with 12 days alongside an awesome crew, exploring everything from the colourful markets of Hanoi to the dreamy bays of Bai Tu Long. Then, the journey continues as you venture north to Sapa where you’ll experience terraced hills, hill tribe communities who’ve held onto their traditions for centuries, and a slower pace of life that feels worlds away. You’ll taste dishes passed down through generations, learn the secrets of rural Vietnam, and experience the country in a way most travellers never do. This isn’t just a trip, it’s Vietnam, from every angle, and it’s unforgettable.

Itinerary

Vietnam 15 Day Tour Itinerary Map One Life Adventures

Day 1 – Arrive in Vietnam!

Good Morning Vietnam! Your adventure kicks off with a pickup from the airport and a smooth ride to your hotel in HCMC. Once you're checked in, you've got the whole day to explore or chill out. Later, meet your crew for an epic welcome dinner with new friends. Cap it all off with a dip in the rooftop pool, taking in those stunning city views.

Accommodation: Twin/Double Rooms - Victory Saigon Hotel (or similar)
Activities: Welcome Dinner
Optional Extras: N/A
Meals: Dinner
Physical Rating: Low

Day 2 – Ho Chi Minh City, Orientation Walk & Overnight Train

Kick off your Vietnam adventure with an orientation walk through the lively streets of Ho Chi Minh City. Take in the energy of Saigon as you wander busy boulevards, explore local markets, and start uncovering the hidden corners that make this city so exciting. It is the perfect way to settle in and get a real feel for life here.

Later, join the locals at Le Van Tam Park for a relaxed game of foot badminton. Jump in for some laughs, light movement, and easygoing fun. No experience needed, just good vibes and a great way to connect with people and the city.

After freshening up at the hotel, head to the train station and board your overnight sleeper train to Da Nang, turning the journey itself into part of the adventure.

Accommodation: Overnight Train to Da Nang
Activities: City Orientation Walk, Local Foot Badminton
Optional Extras: N/A
Meals: Breakfast
Physical Rating: Medium

Day 3 - Hoi An: Ancient Town Walk

After your overnight train, you’ll be transferred to your accommodation to freshen up before the exploring Hoi An on an Ancient Town Walking Tour. Hoi An is a UNESCO World Heritage Site, so there is so much to see and learn about in this beautiful town.

After your tour, enjoy some free time to take in the atmosphere. Wander through Hoi An Market and browse the street stalls selling paintings, woodwork, ceramics, and lanterns. Hoi An is also famous for its local tailoring, so you can visit a tailor or craftsman to have custom clothing or bags made, creating a unique keepsake from your trip.

Accommodation: Twin/Double Rooms - Hoi An Rose Hotel (or similar)
Activities: Ancient Town Walking Tour, Visit a Tailorshop
Optional Extras: N/A
Meals: N/A
Physical Rating: Medium/High

Day 4 – Enjoy Hoi An: Cycling, Soap Making and Kayaking on Sunset

Rise and shine! This morning, you’ll cycle through the peaceful countryside of Cam Kim Island, passing lush rice paddies and farmlands at your own pace. Stop for photos or keep pedalling, the choice is yours. Along the way, you’ll join a meaningful hands-on workshop that turns used cooking oil into eco-friendly soap. You’ll learn how this simple yet powerful initiative prevents pollution, supports local women and youth with extra income, and protects Hoi An’s natural environment.

In the afternoon, you'll get to see Hoi An from a whole new angle as you paddle down the river by kayak at sunset to experience the lantern town.

Accommodation: Twin/Double Rooms - Hoi An Rose Hotel (or similar)
Activities: Cycling tour, Soap making workshop, Sunset Kayak Paddle
Optional Extras: N/A
Meals: Breakfast
Physical Rating: Medium

Day 5 – To Hue & Hai Van Pass

Fuel up with breakfast, then get ready for a road trip to Hue in true style. You’ll journey up the iconic Hai Van Pass, famous for its sweeping coastal views and winding mountain roads.

By afternoon, you’ll roll into Hue, the historic Imperial City and former seat of the Nguyen Dynasty. Here you will get to visit the Imperial Citadel and learn about this UNESCO Heritage listed spot.

Accommodation: Twin/Double Rooms - Park View Hotel (or similar)
Activities: Imperial Citadel Visit
Optional Extras: N/A
Meals: Breakfast
Physical Rating: Low

Day 6 – Hue: The Imperial City

This morning, you’ll be picked up from your hotel and head to Thuy Bieu village, taking in Hue’s beauty from a fresh perspective. Wander through the village, visit Luong Quan communal house, and explore the hundred-year-old garden home of Ho Xuan Dai, where you’ll join a hands-on cooking class.

After a stop at the local market to learn about traditional ingredients, your host will guide you through preparing Hue’s signature dishes before you sit down to enjoy your creations.

In the afternoon, visit the iconic Thien Mu Pagoda, an active Buddhist monastery and one of Hue’s most enduring symbols. Return to the hotel for a short rest and free-time for the rest of the afternoon. You will then be boarding the night train to Ninh Binh.

Accommodation: Overnight train to Ninh Binh
Activities: Garden House Visit, Cooking Class, Thien Mu Pagoda visit
Optional Extras: N/A
Meals: Breakfast & Lunch
Physical Rating: Low

Day 7 – Thung Nang Boat Ride & Pu Luong Park

Arrive at the train station and head straight into one of Vietnam’s most beautiful natural regions. First you'll have do the relaxing Thung Nang boat ride, where a landscape of paddy fields and limestone karst will welcome you to the area.You will then continue on to Pu Luong.

Travel by bus toward Pu Luong Nature Reserve, known for its terraced rice fields, peaceful valleys, and strong local traditions. Once in Don Village, settle into your local homestay and take some time to relax.

Accommodation: Multi-share Rooms - Pu Luong Valley home (or similar)
Activities: Thung Nang Boat Ride
Optional Extras: N/A
Meals: Dinner
Physical Rating: Medium

Day 8 – Pu Luong Park: Trek to Hieu Waterfalls

After breakfast, you'll be heading out on a scenic trek through bamboo forests and terraced rice fields. Your path will lead to the serene Hieu Waterfalls, tucked between limestone hills and offering a perfect touch of adventure and tranquility.

Here have the choice of swimming in the waterfalls and relaxing on the bank. You will then have lunch before heading back to the village. Then, on your own terms, explore the area with some free-time.

Accommodation: Multi-share Rooms - Pu Luong Valley home (or similar)
Activities: Trek to Hieu Waterfalls
Optional Extras: N/A
Meals: Breakfast, Lunch & Dinner
Physical Rating: Medium/High

Day 9 – Bang Cong, Cooking Class, Rafting & on to Hanoi

In the morning you will do the Bang Cong walk. Trek across a suspension bridge to one of Pu Luong's most scenic villages, winding through rice fields and past the region's iconic giant water wheels and learn about native herbs along the way.

You will then get the treat of participating in a Com Lam cooking class to make bamboo sticky rice and discover the significance of bamboo to the local culture. Next is the fun of bamboo rafting where you will paddle upstream with your guide.

Finally, you'll be moving from nature to the city as you travel to Vietnam's most famous city: Hanoi. Once you arrive, rest up before heading out in the evening for a guided street food tour.

Accommodation: Twin/Double Rooms - Hoa Binh Hotel(or similar)
Activities: Bang Cong Walk, Com Lam Cooking Class, Bamboo Rafting, Street Food Tour
Optional Extras: N/A
Meals: Breakfast & Dinner
Physical Rating: Medium

Day 10 – Ha Long Bay & Bai Tu Long Bay

Today, you’ll leave the city behind and journey to the breathtaking Bai Tu Long Bay, a World Heritage-listed wonder that’s every bit as magical as its reputation. From the harbour, board your boat and cruise between towering limestone karsts rising from emerald waters. You'll also make a stop en route to visit a grotto of spectacular stalactites and stalagmites. Grab a paddle and kayak around the stunning scenery of Cap La Island. Fancy a dip? As the day winds down, you'll toast to new friends with sunset drinks and a delicious dinner on deck.

Please note: We recommend bringing a small overnight bag with only the essentials, as storage space on board is limited. Don’t worry about the rest of your luggage, it will be securely stored at your hotel in Hanoi, ready for you when you return after your overnight stay.

Accommodation: Twin/Double Rooms - Renea Cruise (or similar)
Activities: Ha Long Bay Cruise, Kayaking & Bai Tu Long Bay ?Impact Moment
Optional Extras: N/A
Meals: Breakfast, Lunch & Dinner
Physical Rating: Low/Medium

Day 11 – Bai Tu Long Bay to Hanoi

Start your morning with a peaceful Tai Chi session on the sundeck, accompanied by tea, coffee, and light pastries as the bay drifts by. Spend the rest of the morning soaking up the scenery or simply relaxing on deck before enjoying brunch on board and a visit to Thein Canh Son Cave.

Around 11.30am, you’ll return to Hanoi and have some time to refresh at Hanoi Sky Hotel before being trasferred to Hanoi Railway to take the overnight train to Lao Cai tonight.

Accommodation: Overnight sleeper train – Sharing Cabin
Activities: Tai Chi, Thein Canh Son Cave
Optional Extras: N/A
Meals: Breakfast, Brunch
Physical Rating: Low/Medium

Day 12 - Arrive in Sa Pa

Arriving in Sa Pa in the early morning, you’ll be met by your driver and transferred to your hotel to drop off your main luggage, bringing only a small overnight bag for your homestay. From there, meet your local guide and head straight to Ta Van Trek Point. Trek through the lush rice fields of Muong Hoa Valley and discover Ta Van village, where rural life moves at a slower pace, and friendly locals welcome you with warm smiles. After checking in at your homestay, enjoy some free time before sharing a delicious dinner with your hosts and experiencing an authentic night in the heart of Sapa.

 

Accommodation: Twin Share Rooms – Ta Van Homestay (or similar)
Activities: Lao Chai & Ta Van trekking
Optional Extras: N/A
Meals: Dinner
Physical Rating: Medium/High

Day 13 – Ta Van to Giang Ta Chai

Wake up to a delicious breakfast at your homestay. Around 9:00 AM, you’ll set out on a trek to Giang Ta Chai Village. Hike uphill to discover a beautiful waterfall and soak in breathtaking views. Giang Ta Chai is home to the Red Dao people, known for their distinctive black attire with embroidered details. You’ll enjoy lunch in the village before a steep descent.

Back in Sa Pa town, you’ll check into tonights accommodation. The afternoon is yours to explore Sa Pa Town and browse the local market, immersing yourself in the local culture.

*Please note, that we advise guests to wear hiking shoes rather than trainers on this walk.

Accommodation: Twin/Double Rooms – Cat Cat View Hotel (or similar)
Activities: Trek to Giang Ta Chai Village
Optional Extras: N/A
Meals: Breakfast & Lunch
Physical Rating:  Medium / High

Day 14 – Sa Pa & Chasing Waterfalls

Today’s your final day in Sa Pa. After breakfast at your hotel, you’ll head out with your guide and car to an altitude of 1700m to visit the mesmerizing Silver Waterfall, where the Muong Hoa stream begins. Snap some stunning photos before continuing your journey through a wild forest road for about 3 km, reaching a red dirt path that winds through lush green bamboo forests. At the end of the bamboo forest, you’ll follow the stream to the breathtaking Love Waterfall. The waterfall resembles a hat from a distance, creating a picturesque scene in the vast space of mountains and forests. After soaking in the beauty of Love Waterfall, you’ll return to your car and head back to Sa Pa town to enjoy your final lunch in town.

We’ve arranged a late check-out of your accommodation today, so after lunch, you’ll have time to return to your room, freshen up and get your belongings together before your overnight train.

As the evening approaches, transfer to Lao Cai Train Station for your overnight journey to Hanoi. Grab some snacks for the night train and enjoy sharing a cabin with your travel mates.

Accommodation: Overnight sleeper train – 6 Berth Cabin
Activities: Silver & Love Waterfalls
Optional Extras: N/A
Meals: Breakfast & Lunch
Physical Rating:  Medium

Day 15 – Farewell to Vietnam

Your Vietnamese adventure comes to an end as you arrive in Hanoi around 5-5:30 AM. As you say goodbye at Hanoi Train Station, you’ll be filled with unforgettable memories of your journey. If you’re not ready for the adventure to end, don’t hesitate to ask about extending your stay – we’re always happy to help you explore more of Vietnam!

Tam biet va Hen Gap Lai! (Goodbye and See You Again!)

Accommodation: N/A
Activities: N/A
Meals: N/A
Physical Rating:  N/A

Vietnam 15 Day Tour Itinerary Map One Life Adventures

Inclusions

Our crew comprises of award winning tour guides who will make your trip unforgettable. Expertly trained and prepared for every circumstance – they’ll be your new best mate and a fountain of knowledge all wrapped up in one, and will stop at nothing to make your trip life changing.

We’ve packed a full itinerary so you can see the best in your time. Not only that, we’ve personally tried and tested all of the accommodation, transport and meals included on this trip to be sure you’re receiving a quality experience.

Stays

14 nights of accommodation

*Note for Single Upgrades: Nights 2, 6, 11, and 14 will be multishare overnight trains, and nights 7, 8, and 12 will be multishare homestay accommodations.

Jump to more details

Transport

All transport Day 1 to 14

From airport pickups to local vans, night trains, bikes, jeeps, buses and boats

Meals

10x Breakfasts, 6x Lunches, 6x Dinners
Included meal on Vietnam tour including springrolls, a stirfry, a vegetable medley and a salad

Crew

Your OLA tour guide, your drivers & your local guides
Vietnam Tour guide giving thumbs up on cruise boat in Halong Bay

Learn About Our Guides

Activities

  • Welcome dinner
  • Ho Chi Minh City Orientation Walk
  • Local foot badminton
  • Ancient Town walking tour
  • Visit a tailor shop
  • Cycling tour (Cam Kim Island)
  • Soap making workshop
  • Sunset kayak paddle
  • Imperial Citadel visit
  • Garden house visit
  • Cooking class (Hue)
  • Thien Mu Pagoda visit
  • Thung Nang boat ride
  • Trek to Hieu Waterfalls
  • Bang Cong walk
  • Com Lam cooking class
  • Bamboo rafting
  • Hanoi Local Foodie Street Food Tour
  • Bai Tu Long Bay
  • Ha Long Cruise
  • Kayaking in Ha Long Bay
  • Tai Chi on the sundeck
  • Thein Canh Son Cave visit
  • Lao Chai and Ta Van trekking
  • Trek to Giang Ta Chai Village
  • Silver and Love Waterfalls

Health & Safety

The safety and well-being of our guests and staff are our top priority. Here at One Life Adventures, we ensure:

  • All guides are trained in First Aid, CPR, and key safety protocols.

  • Guides complete ongoing Health & Safety training to uphold top safety standards.

  • An on-the-ground and office support for emergencies and guest health is maintained.

  • Guides carry local clinic contacts and know the medical network along each route.

  • Practical advice to help you stay safe while travelling is provided.

See our Health & Safety processes and considerations

 

Night Stays

Unbeatable locations, stylish interiors, sparkling pools, and the level of comfort that One Life accommodation is known for. We mix up the fancier places with some nights in a remote homestay where you will eat, sleep, and live like the locals for that truly authentic experience. All our accommodation options have been selected by us to ensure you get the best of what Vietnam has, without breaking the bank. Clean, comfortable, and perfect to recharge after a big day of adventure. This tour includes two overnight trains where you will stay in a four berth cabin (occasionally 6 berth) with bench seats that convert into sleeping bunks.

Z

Multishare & Twin/Double Rooms

Z

Authentic Homestay

Z

Overnight Cruise

Customer Reviews

Vietnam Classic – 15 Days with One Life Adventures

From AU$3095

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FAQs

Let’s go through the basics before you meet us on your big trip to Vietnam. You are about to set off into one of the most spectacular places on the planet and we want to make sure you’re all ready! If you still have further questions after reading through this section then please get in touch with one of the friendly OLA team who are here to answer all your questions.

Where should I fly into? /Where does the tour end?

You will start your tour in Ho Chi Minh City (Formally known as Saigon) The Airport here is Tan Son Nhat International Airport (SGN).

As for the end of the tour, you will finish in Hanoi. So if you are looking to fly out from Hanoi, you'll want to head to Noi Bai International Airport (HAN).

Can I get picked up from the airport if I arrive before day 1?

We don't offer this option at this time, however, what we can suggest is downloading online taxi applications called Grab or GoJek. They are similar to the famous Uber app and should make this transfer an easy process for you.

Does it matter what time I arrive on day 1 in order to be picked up from the airport?

We definitely recommend you arrive before 3 pm, this way you should have enough time to make it to the first accommodation and be present at the welcome dinner which is where we collect a bit more info from you. Arrivals after this could well risk you missing it. However, no matter the time or airport you are landing at, pickup is included and a driver will be waiting for your arrival with a One Life Adventures sign.

Can you cater for my dietary requirements on this trip?

Yes, although we can't guarantee every dietary requirement can be catered to along the way, our guide will do their utmost best to help you with alternative options and what you can eat otherwise.

I am applying for my visa and I need a reference and address?

Your first night’s stay will be:

Riverside Saigon
Address: 18-19-20, Đường Tôn Đức Thắng, Bến Nghé, Quận 1, Hồ Chí Minh, Vietnam

Please see the government website for whether you will need a visa to enter Vietnam. This topic is continually changing, so we recommend you do relevant research on the government websites.

Is there WiFi throughout the trip?

Wifi is available on the tour in all mainland accommodations, Ha Long Bay cruise ships and trains do not.

Your guide can help you purchase a local sim card if you want to have connection while outside too.

How much spending money do you recommend for this tour?

You can expect to spend around $20/$30 USD per day. Budgeting can be done if you are open to eating at more local vendors and don't drink alcoholic drinks.

Do we still have privacy on the nights that we are in multi-share accommodation?

While in Pu Luong homestay (and Sa Pa homestay for 13 day travellers) you will stay in one big room, a very unique traditional stay, and it does have curtains between sleeping areas and multiple bathrooms. Also overnight trains will be multi-share rooms. In any accomodations that are multi-share, we will do our best to keep it to the same genders, however occasionally, it may be mixed.

I have never kayaked before. Will someone help me, and do we get our own kayaks?

We have 2 people kayaks, and we will try to allocate guests together depending on their experience to have a fun and successful time.

Should I bring my hiking shoes?

Yes, we would recommend bringing hiking shoes as there is hiking in Pu Luong, and again in Sa Pa.

Do I need temple clothes for visiting the temple?

 Yes, please do bring something that will cover your shoulders and knees. Temples do have dress codes and if your shoulders or knees are exposed you will be denied entry. Your guide will tell you on which days to wear these items so you're prepared and ready.

What time can I fly out on the last day?

On the last day, we recommend the earliest departure no earlier than 11:00 AM. Please allow 1-1,5 hours to travel to the airport.

Visas & General FAQs

For more information about your visa requirements as well as the answers to more general frequently asked questions, visit Visas & General FAQs

*Group Size Disclaimer: Our standard maximum group size is 22 people for an optimal tour experience. However, on very rare occasions, we may accept up to 24 people due to logistical considerations.

Secure your place now and pay later

Deposit AU$350

Reserve your spot with a deposit when booking 60+ days out from your departure date.

Not quite ready to book yet?

Request via Whatsapp to secure your spot on the tour for the next 48 hours while you finalise plans, check flights, or chat with friends.

We’ve Got You

Not sure where to start? Our team’s always here to help plan your trip and answer any questions along the way. Book a free call with a travel specialist. Just part of what we do - no commitments required.

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