12-Day Ultimate Vietnam Luxury Escapes & Classic Routes
Vietnam is a land of breathtaking contrasts, where ancient traditions seamlessly blend with modern luxury. This 12-day itinerary is meticulously designed for the discerning traveler, combining the country's most iconic 'Classic Route' landmarks with high-end experiences that elevate the journey beyond the ordinary.
From the colonial elegance of Hanoi and the mystical waters of Lan Ha Bay to the imperial majesty of Hue and the vibrant pulse of Ho Chi Minh City, you will travel in style. Expect private transfers, domestic business-class flights, and stays at some of the world's most prestigious heritage hotels while exploring the deep cultural roots of the Indochina peninsula.
Day 1: Hanoi, Vietnam - Arrival & Colonial Heritage
Arrival at Noi Bai & Private Transfer
Arrive at Noi Bai International Airport and enjoy a seamless VIP greeting followed by a private luxury sedan transfer to the historic French Quarter.
Check-in at Sofitel Legend Metropole
Step into history at this 1901 colonial landmark. Enjoy a refreshing signature cocktail at the Bamboo Bar by the pool.
Private Cyclo Tour of the Old Quarter
Explore the 36 Streets of Hanoi from the comfort of a traditional cyclo, passing silk shops and ancient temples as the city lights up.
Welcome Dinner at Le Beaulieu
Indulge in award-winning French fine dining at Hanoi's most prestigious restaurant, located within your hotel.
Day 2: Hanoi, Vietnam - Art & Gastronomy
Ho Chi Minh Complex & One Pillar Pagoda
Visit the final resting place of 'Uncle Ho' and the nearby stilt house, guided by a private historian to avoid the crowds.
Gourmet Lunch at Tầm Vị
Experience traditional northern Vietnamese cuisine in a beautiful restored vintage house. This restaurant holds a prestigious Michelin star.
Temple of Literature Private Tour
Explore Vietnam's first university, a stunning example of traditional architecture dedicated to Confucius.
A O Show at the Hanoi Opera House
Witness a spectacular 'bamboo circus' performance that blends acrobatics and traditional music in a magnificent colonial theater.
Day 3: Lan Ha Bay, Vietnam - Mystical Waters
Luxury Limousine Transfer to Hai Phong
Depart Hanoi in a private luxury van equipped with Wi-Fi and leather reclining seats for the smooth drive to the coast.
Board the Heritage Line Ginger Cruise
Embark on an elegant boutique vessel for a 2-day cruise through the quieter, more exclusive Lan Ha Bay.
Kayaking the Dark and Bright Cave
Paddle through hidden sea caves into a secluded lagoon surrounded by sheer vertical cliffs.
Six-Course Seafood Gala Dinner
Dine on the upper deck under the stars, enjoying fresh local lobster and scallops prepared by on-board chefs.
Day 4: Lan Ha Bay to Hue, Vietnam - Transition to the Imperial City
Tai Chi on the Sundeck
Start your day with a guided Tai Chi session as the sun rises over the emerald waters of the bay.
Disembark & Transfer to Airport
Enjoy a final brunch on board before heading to Cat Bi Airport for your short flight south to the former imperial capital.
Check-in at Azerai La Residence
Arrive at your Art Deco mansion overlooking the Perfume River, once the residence of the French Resident Superior.
Royal Banquet Experience
Don traditional royal costumes and enjoy a multi-course dinner themed after the feasts of the Nguyen Emperors.
Day 5: Hue, Vietnam - The Nguyen Dynasty Legacy
The Imperial Citadel Private Tour
Explore the sprawling complex of the Forbidden Purple City, featuring ornate gates and reconstructed pavilions.
Vegetarian Lunch at a Buddhist Pagoda
Hue is famous for its sophisticated vegetarian cuisine; enjoy a serene meal prepared by local monks.
Tomb of Emperor Khai Dinh
Visit the most visually stunning royal tomb, a unique blend of Vietnamese design and Western influences with intricate mosaics.
Sunset Dragon Boat Cruise
Glide down the Perfume River on a private traditional boat as the sun sets behind the Thien Mu Pagoda.
Day 6: Da Nang & Hoi An, Vietnam - Over the Clouds
Drive the Hai Van Pass
Travel by private car over the spectacular 'Ocean Cloud Pass,' made famous by Top Gear, offering stunning coastal views.
Lunch in Da Nang
Stop for fresh seafood at a high-end restaurant along My Khe Beach before continuing to Hoi An.
Check-in at Four Seasons Nam Hai
Retreat to one of the world's top luxury beach resorts, located on a pristine stretch of Ha My Beach.
Hoi An Ancient Town Walk
Explore the UNESCO-listed town at night, when thousands of colorful silk lanterns illuminate the river and streets.
Day 7: Hoi An, Vietnam - Tailoring & Traditions
Bespoke Tailoring Appointment
Visit a world-class tailor like Bebe or Yaly for a private consultation to have custom silk garments made within 24 hours.
Market Tour & Luxury Cooking Class
Join a private chef from Red Bridge Cooking School to source ingredients and learn the secrets of Hoi An's specialty dishes.
Tea Tasting at Reaching Out Tea House
Support a local social enterprise while enjoying a silent tea ceremony in a beautifully restored merchant house.
Riverside Dining at Mango Mango
Enjoy innovative fusion cuisine and creative cocktails with a view of the iconic Japanese Covered Bridge.
Day 8: Hoi An, Vietnam - Coastal Relaxation
Spa & Wellness at Nam Hai
Indulge in a signature 'Anti-Gravity' yoga session or a traditional Vietnamese massage at the resort’s award-winning spa.
Gourmet Beachside Lunch
Savor light Mediterranean fare and chilled wine with your toes in the sand at the resort's beach club.
Private Sunset Catamaran Sail
Charter a private catamaran for a scenic cruise along the coastline as the sky turns vibrant orange.
Private Beach BBQ
Enjoy a bespoke dinner set up exclusively for you on the beach, featuring local lobster and prime Wagyu beef.
Day 9: Ho Chi Minh City, Vietnam - Southern Energy
Flight to Ho Chi Minh City
Take a short domestic flight to the bustling southern metropolis, formerly known as Saigon.
Lunch at Propaganda Bistro
Enjoy vibrant Vietnamese street food flavors in a stylish, art-filled setting near the Notre Dame Cathedral.
Check-in at Park Hyatt Saigon
Stay at the city's most refined hotel, featuring elegant French colonial design and world-class service.
Saigon After Dark by Vintage Vespa
Zip through the city's hidden alleys and busy boulevards on the back of a vintage Vespa for an authentic food tour.
Day 10: Mekong Delta, Vietnam - River Life
Luxury Speedboat to the Mekong
Avoid the traffic by taking a private speedboat from the Saigon pier directly into the heart of the Mekong Delta.
Floating Markets & Fruit Orchards
Navigate the narrow canals of Ben Tre, visiting local artisans and tasting exotic fruits fresh from the tree.
Riverside Lunch at a Private Villa
Enjoy a quiet lunch of 'Elephant Ear Fish,' a regional delicacy, in a lush tropical garden setting.
Return to Saigon
Arrive back at your hotel in time for a refreshing dip in the pool before your evening out.
Day 11: Ho Chi Minh City, Vietnam - History & Heights
Cu Chi Tunnels via Speedboat
Visit the famous underground network used during the war, traveling again by speedboat to arrive before the bus tours.
Lunch at Anan Saigon
Dine at the only Michelin-starred restaurant in Ho Chi Minh City, known for its creative 'Cầu Gỗ' street food elevated to fine art.
War Remnants Museum & Reunification Palace
Gain a deeper understanding of Vietnam's modern history with a private guide at these two essential sites.
Farewell Drinks at Bitexco Skydeck
Toast to your journey with 360-degree views of the sprawling city from the EON Heli Bar.
Day 12: Ho Chi Minh City, Vietnam - Final Favors & Departure
Shopping at Ben Thanh & Le Cong Kieu
Pick up high-quality lacquerware and antiques at the city's most famous markets for your last-minute souvenirs.
Final Lunch at Nha Hang Ngon
Savor a final Vietnamese feast in a beautiful garden villa that brings together the best dishes from across the country.
Afternoon Tea at the Park Lounge
Enjoy a sophisticated high tea service before your late afternoon airport transfer.
Departure Transfer
Your private driver will escort you to Tan Son Nhat International Airport for your flight home.
Best Time to Visit Vietnam
Vietnam is a long country with three distinct climate zones. For this nationwide itinerary, the best time to visit is during the shoulder seasons of spring (March to April) or autumn (September to November). During these months, you'll likely find pleasant, dry weather in both the north (Hanoi) and the south (Saigon), and beautiful sunny days for the beaches in Central Vietnam.
Currency & Money
The local currency is the Vietnamese Dong (VND). While high-end hotels, restaurants, and boutiques in cities like Hanoi and Saigon widely accept international credit cards (Visa/Mastercard), cash is still king at local markets and for small purchases. Tipping is not mandatory but is highly appreciated in the luxury sector; 10% for excellent service at restaurants or small tips for private guides and drivers go a long way.
Getting Around Vietnam
To maintain a luxury pace across 12 days, domestic flights between Hanoi, Hue, Da Nang, and Ho Chi Minh City are essential; these short 1-hour hops save days of travel time. For intercity road travel, such as the route from Hue to Hoi An, hiring a private chauffeur is the standard for premium travel. Within the cities, use 'Grab' (the regional version of Uber) for short trips, or rely on your hotel’s private car service for maximum comfort.
