Ultimate Vietnam: Big Cities, Beaches & The Best Views Ever

G Adventures · 16 days

4.4

20 Reviews

Duration

16 days

Tour Type

Small Group

Accommodations

Basic

Physical Rating

Light

Guide Language

English

Experience Overview

If you aren’t looking for the most immersive Vietnam experience ever, stop reading these words because this 16-day, hostel-based adventure covers it all.

Includes

Activities

Your G for Good Moment: Oodles of Noodles, Hoi An Your Welcome Moment: Meet Your CEO and Group Your Wellness Moment: Mud Bath Visit, Nha Trang
Hanoi Old Town Cyclo Tour
Bia Hoi Corner and Microbrewery Crawl
Hanoi Foodie Culture Tour
Tam Chuc Pagoda Tour
Dong Hoi Wet/Fish Market tour and countryside cycling
Vinh Moc Tunnels Tour
An Bang Cemetary Tour
Visit Lang Co Beach
Hai Van Pass and Marble Mountain Tour
Hoi An Old Town Walk and Riverside Evening Out
Dinner at one of the stylish restaurants in the ancient town of Hoi An
Thap Doi Cham Temples Visit
Eoi Gio Coastal Walk
Beach Time at Qui Nhon and Nha Trang
Visit Gành Đá Dĩa
Ho Chi Minh City Walking Tour including Ben Thanh Market
Karaoke Night
All transport between destinations and to/from included activities

Accommodation

Hostels (12 nts), overnight sleeper train (3 nts).

15 breakfasts, 2 lunches, 5 dinners

Transport

Private vehicle, cyclo, train, bicycle, open-top jeeps, walking.

Group Leader

CEO (Chief Experience Officer) throughout, Local Guides.

Highlights

Experience Hanoi as it comes alive at night
Sample Vietnam's tasty local eats and street food
Wander Dong Hoi wet/fish market with a Banh Mi Breakfast in hand
Descend into the less-visited Vinh Moc Tunnels
Free time to hike in Ninh Binh and explore caves in Phong Nha
Hit the beach in Qui Nhon and Nha Trang
Immerse into the hustle and bustle of Ho Chi Minh City.

Trip Details

Duration

16 days

Transportation

Private vehicle, cyclo, train, bicycle, open-top jeeps, walking.

Guide Language

English

Starts

Hanoi, Vietnam

Finishes

Ho Chi Minh City, Vietnam

Accommodations

Basic

Travel Style

18 - 35 Year Olds Only, Budget

Physical Rating

Light

Itinerary

Day 1: Hanoi

Arrive at any time, and choose to kick back at the hostel, or head out to explore the city before meeting up with fellow Roamies in the evening. Ready for some fun? Of course you are! Jump on a cyclo and take a thrilling ride around Hanoi's old quarter to watch the streets come alive at night. Finish off with some tasty street eats for dinner.

Meals included: Dinner

Exclusive inclusions: Activity - Your opportunity to meet your CEO and fellow travellers, and learn more about your tour. Opt to join the group for a local meal afterwards. Don't forget to see the notice in the lobby (or ask reception) for the official time and place to meet up with the group.Activity - Take a seat on a cyclo for a tour of Hanoi’s lively Old Quarter. Let the driver navigate through the bustling streets and start taking some photos or just use the tour to help get familiar with the area.Accommodation - Nexy Hostel

Day 2: Hanoi

Freedom! Today is yours to explore and your CEO will help get you sorted. Want to immerse yourself in Hanoi–take a full day city tour. Feeling the culinary vibe–we'll book you a cooking class. Looking to escape–we'll get you on a full day excursion to Halong Bay. How's that for options? Regardless of your plans, you'll group back together for dinner at the famed Koto Restaurant. With full bellies, it's time for a microbrewery crawl including a stop at Hanoi's most popular beer joint–Bia Hoi corner. Pull up a plastic stool and order a local draught. Cheers!

Meals included: Breakfast,Dinner

Exclusive inclusions: Free_time - Hanoi has so much to offer–get out and explore. Choose to visit sites such as Tran Quoc Pagoda and the Temple of Literature (Văn Miếu). Book a cycling tour or cooking class; or take a full day excursion to Halong Bay. The choice is yours.Activity - Savour a meal of Western and Vietnamese cuisine at this restaurant while supporting a training program that prepares local disadvantaged youth for careers in the culinary arts. After over 20 years of operation the Koto School, they have worked to help people help themselves, and help others.Activity - Follow your CEO to the famous Bia Hoi corner and pull up a plastic stool with a mix of locals and visitors. Order up the local brew and make some new friends. Later, explore Hanoi's burgeoning craft beer scene with a visit to a few of the cities best microbreweries.Accommodation - Nexy Hostel

Day 3: Hanoi

Ready for more? Hanoi has so much to offer and you'll have another full free day to enjoy the city. Food, adventure, culture, relaxation–we've got you covered. This evening, meet up with fellow Roamies and get ready to indulge your inner foodie. Head out for a walk through the back streets and markets of the city's old quarter, sampling local favourites like “nem ran” and “banh goi.” Take a pit stop at a street-side bar then swing by Hanoi Food Culture restaurant, a G Values Fund Project, and try the city's signature specialty egg coffee. Having fun yet? Of course you are!

Meals included: Breakfast,Dinner

Exclusive inclusions: Free_time - Hanoi is yours to explore. Choose from a variety of activities in and outside the city, just ask your CEO.Activity - Indulge your inner foodie with a street food tour through bustling Hanoi. Follow your guide through the back streets and markets of the city’s old quarter, sampling local fare along the way. Mingle with city natives and experienced street food artists alike, as you taste a variety of Hanoi faves like “nem ran” and “banh goi.” Stop at a streetside bar to savour a draught beer like Hanoians do. Cap off the tour at the Hanoi Food Culture restaurant, a G Values Fund Project, and try the city’s signature specialty coffee.Accommodation - Nexy Hostel

Day 4: Hanoi/Ninh Bình

Ready to hit the backroads? Let's go! Start with a visit to Tam Chuc Pagoda, the largest in southeast Asia. Continue on to Ninh Binh and gaze in awe at the limestone cliffs rising up from the rice fields. No filters required as this landscape is already picture-perfect. Ready to chill? Enjoy some free time, you deserve it. Kick back at the hostel and meet some new friends over a cold one or rent a bike to explore off the beaten trail in the beautiful countryside. The choice is yours!

Meals included: Breakfast

Exclusive inclusions: Activity - Visit Tam Chuc Pagoda on a CEO-guided tour then take some free time to explore on your own. Opened in 2019, Tam Chuc is the largest pagoda in Southeast Asia. It is a truly beautiful site with the sparkling lake in front and the rolling green mountains behind. Follow along with the many pilgrims who visit here for reflection and prayers.Transport - Settle in and scan the scenery from the convenience of a private vehicle.Free_time - Enjoy a free afternoon to do as much, or as little as your please.Accommodation - Ninh Binh Buffalo Hostel

Day 5: Ninh Bình

Today is yours–get out and explore! Go temple-hopping, biking or hike through rice fields. Feeling energetic? Trek up to Hang Mua Peak for ridiculous views of the surrounding countryside. Adventurous? Jump in a small boat to explore the Trang An Grottoes–small caves found along the canals and lakes only accessible by water. Lazy? No worries, chill out at the hostel and catch up on your social feeds. Whatever you choose, don't forget to pack-up before heading out to catch the overnight sleeper train–All Aboard!

Meals included: Breakfast

Exclusive inclusions: Free_time - You've got the whole day to do as you please. Bike, hike, boat or feet-up, the choice is yours!Transport - Stretch out and get some well-earned rest en route to the next stop.

Day 6: Dong Hoi/Phong Nha

Are you ready to dive into local life even more? Of course you are! Let's start at the expansive Dong Hoi fish market, a bustling collection of vendors selling all manner of seafood. Hungry? Stop by a stall for a traditional Vietnamese breakfast of Banh Mi–served on soft French baguettes, they are a fusion of French and Vietnamese cuisine. Now you're fuelled up, hop on a bike and ride out into the gorgeous rural countryside. How 'bout some down time? It's been a busy day so head to your hostel in Phong Nha to relax and share your adventures with your mates.

Meals included: Breakfast

Exclusive inclusions: Activity - Explore the vibrant Dong Hoi wet/fish market with your CEO. The market is bustling in the early morning where locals come to buy and sell all manner of products including: seafood, vegetables, fruit, chickens, spices; even, frogs! After walking around the market we will grab a traditional Vietnamese breakfast of Banh Mi. The famed Banh mi sandwiches are a typical street food that originated in Saigon and are heavily influence by French cuisine. They are served on French baguettes with a French and Vietnamese fusion inside. Typically, they are mad up of pickled carrots, daikon, chiles, cucumber slices, cilantro, mayo, and (if you choose) a meat.Activity - Hop on a bike and take a short cycling tour of Dong Hoi and the nearby villages. Gently peddle along through the countryside admiring the beautiful landscape and rural way of life including a stop at Bao Ninh fishing village.Transport - Settle in and scan the scenery from the convenience of a private vehicle.Accommodation - Central Backpacker Hostel

Day 7: Phong Nha

Live it up with a full free day in Phong Nha–an adventure lovers paradise! Caving anyone? You can't miss the chance to explore the world's largest cave system. Don't forget the waterproof case because these shots will make you the envy of your social feeds. Something else perhaps? Your CEO knows all the insiders for hiking and biking excursions throughout this stunning, vast wilderness. You must be thirsty by now? Then it's time to chill out with the option to join an evening bar crawl with the gang-freedom never tasted so good!

Meals included: Breakfast

Exclusive inclusions: Free_time - The day is yours with options for hiking and biking. We highly recommend the awe-inspiring caves of Phong Nha-Kẻ Bàng National Park, where the oldest karst mountains and longest caves in Asia are found.Accommodation - Central Backpacker Hostel

Day 8: Phong Nha/Huế

Ready to explore underground? Find out as you descend into the Vinh Moc tunnels (like the Cu Chi tunnels without the crowds), built by local villagers during the Vietnam War. After, find your way to Hue (pun intended) for a free afternoon. Feeling adventurous? Hop on the back of a motorbike for a thrilling ride around town. Curious? Visit the historic Citadel and Royal tombs. Chill? Kick back at the hostel or lounge at a riverside bar. Does it get any better than this? I think not.

Meals included: Breakfast

Exclusive inclusions: Activity - Built by local villagers to escape World War II bombings, take a guided tour of the Vinh Moc tunnels in a former Vietnamese demilitarized zone. Learn about the history of this complex underground tunnel system and its stories of human resilience.Free_time - Take some free time to explore Hua your way!Transport - Settle in and scan the scenery from the convenience of a private vehicle.Accommodation - Amy Hostel

Day 9: Huế/Hoi An

Ready for an epic day? Let's jump into open-top jeeps for a thrilling drive across iconic Hai Van pass. First stop is the city of ghosts at the infamous An Bang cemetery. Need to cool down? Hit beautiful Lang Co Beach for a refreshing dip in the sea and traditional local lunch. Continue to fill your social feeds with shots from Da Nang bay, an abandoned French fort and Marble mountain pagoda. Seen enough? Of course you haven't! Hoi An awaits with a walk through the old town ending at a lively riverside bar. How's that for epic?

Meals included: Breakfast,Lunch

Exclusive inclusions: Transport - Settle in and scan the scenery from the convenience of a private vehicle.Activity - Step off the beaten path and visit An Bang Cemetery–one of the largest cemeteries in the country. Covering 250 hectares, it's locally known as the City of Ghosts and is famous for its extravagant tombs for their deceased family members. Many stand two or three stories high and showcase elaborate ornate gold carvings often featuring dragons and other mythical creatures. Some of the larger tombs even include fully functional bedrooms, bathrooms and kitchens reflecting loved ones strong belief of the afterlife, and the practice of honouring beloved ancestors.Activity - Enjoy a stop at Beautiful Lang Co Beach. Walk along the palm lined white sand beach and take a dip in the calm turquoise coloured waters.Activity - Drive through the spectacular Hai Van Pass, a 20km stretch of road that represents the division between northern and southern Vietnam, and is also one of the country's highest points at 500m above sea level. In Vietnamese, Hai Van roughly translates to "sea of clouds" and it's easy to see why. As your vehicle winds through the mountain roads, you'll see misty peaks rise above the South China Sea, with glimpses of pristine beaches, forests and the cityscape of Da Nang along the way.Activity - Join your CEO on a stroll through the winding streets of Hoi An's Old Town and spot Chinese assembly halls, historic homes, and well-preserved pagodas along the way. (Entrance fee to Hoi An's Old Town is not included)Accommodation - Dolphin Hostel Hoi An

Day 10: Hoi An

Ready to explore? Hoi An offers so much and you'll have an entire free day to do as you choose. Discover the ancient old town by bike or boat, or go further afield on an excursion to My Son or the Golden Bridge and Ba Na Hills. Don't worry about the details, your CEO has all the right contacts. Later, meet up with your Roamies for dinner at one of the stylish restaurants in the ancient town of Hoi An. Hop out of your comfort zone and try Nem Rán, Gỏi Đu Đủ Bò Khô, or how about Cao Lầu; you'll find all the local favourites here. Yummy!

Meals included: Breakfast,Dinner

Exclusive inclusions: Free_time - Enjoy a free day in Hoi An. You'll have lots to choose from, just ask your CEO for options.Accommodation - Dolphin Hostel Hoi An

Day 11: Hoi An/Qui Nhon

Ready for some noodles? Then let's dig in! Start the day with a cooking class at the G Adventures–supported Oodles of Noodles training school, enjoying your creations for lunch. Afterwards, you're free to do as much (or as little) as you choose. Feeling fancy? Get fitted for a custom suit. Creative? Learn to make Vietnamese lanterns. Thirsty? pull up a stool at one of the many river-side bars and cafes. Later, it's all-aboard for the overnight train heading south. Settle into your sleeper cabin and catch some zzzzz's.

Meals included: Breakfast,Lunch

Exclusive inclusions: Activity - Try some of the oodles of noodles (more than 26 types!) available in the city in this tasty cooking class. Run by our G for Good partners, STREETS International, this class was developed exclusively for G Adventures. Former street youth that are part of this hospitality training program, will help you prepare and cook a number of different types of noodles. This program helps these youth practice their English, increasing their skill-set and opportunities available to them in the tourism industry. Enjoy your yummy creations while learning more about the local cuisine and this initiative which empowers street youth through skills and employment training.Free_time - Your afternoon is free to relax, explore or try optional activities like making traditional lanterns, and visiting the ruins of My Son. Your CEO has lots of ideas if you need them.Transport - Settle in and scan the scenery from the convenience of a private vehicle.Transport - Stretch out and get some well-earned rest en route to the next stop.

Day 12: Qui Nhon

Jump off the train and head to Thap Doi to explore the imposing Cham temples. Hungry? You'll stop by Eoi Gio for a local breakfast and walk along the gorgeous coastline. OK, enough is enough, are you ready to hit the beach? Of course you are! With it's white sand and crystal blue water, Ky Co beach is exactly where you want to be. This remote spot is perfect to spend a chill afternoon or grab a snorkel to spot pristine corals and colourful fish. Speaking of fish, later you'll visit one of Qui Nhon's best seafood restaurants for dinner. Try local favourites like Bun thit nuong, Banh Xeo, and banh beo chen–you'll be bursting after this awesome feast!

Meals included: Breakfast,Dinner

Exclusive inclusions: Activity - The Quy Nhon province has the highest number of Champaera ruins in Vietnam. The Cham temples were built in the 11th century by Champa rulers and you will visit the ruins of Thap Doi towers. These ancient sandstone structures have very similar characteristics as the Angkor complex in Cambodia.Activity - Take a walk to explore the beautiful Eo Gió (translated as “Windy Waist”) coastline. Admire the jagged cliffs, hidden caves, and deep blue water as it smashes into the massive rocks. Swimming is not allowed, but you can cool off your feet in the rushing waves and keep your eyes open for fish and marine wildlife.Activity - Visit beautiful Ky Co beach (Bãi Kỳ Co) considered one of the best beaches in Vietnam (known as the “Maldives of Vietnam”). Walk along the white sand and dive in to the crystal-clear blue water. Choose to do some snorkelling where you can view massive corals and colourful fish.Transport - Settle in and scan the scenery from the convenience of a private vehicle.Accommodation - 5 Elements Hostel, Qui Nhon

Day 13: Qui Nhon/Nha Trang

Settle in to your private ride for a bit of a drive today. Catch up on your feeds, take a nap but get ready for a gorgeous stop along the way. Gành Đá Dĩa, known as the Giant's Causeway of Vietnam offers amazing views and angles for your pics–snap away! Next stop is the Mud Baths in the resort city of Nha Trang. Climb into the mud and mineral pools and soak away. The evening is then yours–ready to party? There are a gazillion options and your CEO will suggest the best of the best nightclubs and beach bars for your enjoyment. Really hope you had a nap on the bus.

Meals included: Breakfast

Exclusive inclusions: Transport - Settle in and scan the scenery from the convenience of a private vehicle.Activity - Stop at Gành Đá Dĩa, known as the "Giant’s Causeway of Vietnam." This unique landscape is a result of volcanic activity millions of years ago where lava flows reached the sea, solidified and cracks formed the stunning basalt columns. Erosion over thousands of years did the rest, creating unique shapes and forms seen today.Activity - Take a relaxing dip in the therapeutic mud baths of Nha Trang. Thought to possess healing properties, the mud baths are the perfect place to unwind.Accommodation - Bondi Backpackers Nha Trang

Day 14: Nha Trang/Ho Chi Minh City

Freedom! The day is yours to enjoy Nha Trang's many beach options. Find a spot and stretch out on your towel to catch some rays and play in the surf. Stroll the extensive promenade for shopping, bars and fun. Why not channel your inner child at the waterpark or jump on a boat for a snorkelling tour–the choice is yours! Tonight brush off the sand and hop back on the train for your overnight journey back to the big city.

Meals included: Breakfast

Exclusive inclusions: Free_time - Enjoy a full free day in Nha Trang. Choose to hit the beach, go snorkelling, or visit local shops, beach bars and markets.Transport - Stretch out and get some well-earned rest en route to the next stop.

Day 15: Ho Chi Minh City

Welcome to Ho Chi Minh City–this thriving metropolis will not disappoint! Head out on a walking tour visiting bustling Ben Thanh market, Reunification Palace and the French quarter. Hungry? Your CEO will order up HCMC's most famous dish; pho–the breakfast of champions. After slurping up your noodles, you are free–why not hop on a cyclo or motorbike tour, visit the infamous Cu Chi tunnels or head back to the hostel to relax. Whatever you do, don't forget to warm up your vocal cords and throw on your most outrageous frock because it's time for karaoke. You'll have a farewell party like no other in one of the city's top sing-along bars. Neon lights, blaring tunes and roaring crowds will entice you to the stage. Get ready–you're next. Own it!

Meals included: Breakfast

Exclusive inclusions: Activity - Walk to the bustling Ben Thanh Market, filled with everyday goods, handicrafts, clothing, souvenirs, and lively hawkers trying to win over a customer. Continue to the Reunification Palace and learn about the power struggle between Vietnam's North and South regions. Continue to the French Quarter and admire its colonial architecture. See the Notre Dame Cathedral, Old Central Post Office, City Hall and the Opera House, before ending the tour at the quirky Cafe Apartments.Activity - Wander this bustling market for more insight into Ho Chi Minh City. Pick up souvenirs, sample local cuisine, and experience local living. Learn a little history along the way; Ben Thanh started as a cluster of street vendors selling wares by the Saigon River, and was formalized into a true market in 1859.Free_time - The afternoon is yours, get out and explore this bustling city.Activity - Enjoy a night out at one of Ho Chi Minh Citys' most popular karaoke bars!Accommodation - Phan Anh Backpacker

Day 16: Ho Chi Minh City

Say goodbye to your Roamies and depart at any time, or keep the adventure going by heading through the Mekong delta into Cambodia on the next leg of this epic adventure.

Meals included: Breakfast

Exclusive inclusions: Activity - Not ready to leave? Your CEO can help with travel arrangements to extend your adventure.

Exclusions

Flights to and from origin and destinations
Airport transfers (unless otherwise stated)
Anything else not explicitly listed in tour inclusions
Recommended gratuities/tipping
Optional activities/tours
Personal expenses
Travel insurance
Visas, meals and beverages not stated in the list of inclusions.

Important Information

Meals

When meals are not included, your tour leader (where available) will be happy to help with restaurant recommendations, bookings, and directions. Please let us know if you have any dietary needs or preferences. We will do our best to accommodate these, though we cannot guarantee that every request can be met.

Luggage

You are responsible for your personal belongings throughout the tour. You will need to carry your own bags between the vehicle and your hotel room. Drivers will assist with loading and unloading luggage from the vehicle.

Mobility

Travellers requiring wheelchair access should contact our sales and service team, who can make enquiries on your behalf.

Fitness Level

This tour requires an average level of fitness. Activities are paced gently and include leisure time. You may be expected to join guided walks of up to one hour, navigate short stairways and mild inclines, and manage your own luggage. You should also be able to board and exit all transport without assistance.

Travellers are expected to be self-sufficient and capable of handling all aspects of their journey. Please discuss your circumstances and support needs with your booking agent to confirm this trip is suitable.

If you are unsure, we recommend consulting your doctor before booking or travelling.

Sightseeing

If a planned site visit is unavailable due to changes in operating hours or holiday closures, the itinerary may be altered, or a comparable activity will be substituted where possible and subject to availability.

Visas

Visa conditions can change. Once you receive your travel documents, check with the relevant embassy, consulate, or immigration office of your destination for the latest information.

It is your responsibility to ensure you have the correct and valid travel documents and to comply with all entry requirements.
Non-Australian citizens must also confirm visa and identification requirements with the appropriate consulate or visa agency.
Certain occupations (for example, journalists, government officials, or those working in charities) may face additional restrictions when applying for visas, which could affect the type of application required.

Departure Dates & Surcharges: See checkout for live dates and availability.

From
AUD $2049

AUD $1,639

(Tour only)

Offer ends 01 Apr, 2026 Per Person Twin

Duration: 16 days

Trip Type: Small Group

Activity Level: Light

If you aren’t looking for the most immersive Vietnam experience ever, stop reading these words because this 16-day, hostel-based adventure covers it all.

Check Availability Brochure

Price based on per person in Double Room for departure 17 Jul 2026

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Customer Reviews

Overall Rating

Excellent

4.5

Guide

Excellent

4.5

Itinerary

Excellent

4.5

Accommodations

Excellent

4.5

Transportation

Excellent

4.5

Tour Operator

Excellent

4.5

Food

Excellent

4.5

Nicola S.

Traveled, July 2024

07/17/2024

I really loved to just enjoy Vietnam in a group of strangers without having to plan anything. The strangers quickly became friends.

4.5

Kevin M.

Traveled, May 2024

06/14/2024

I absolutely loved my trip to Vietnam with Gadventures. As someone who has never traveled solo to Asia before I never imagined how this group would make it such an amazing experience which I will never forget. Will definitely be booking again for next year

Tour Operator

G Adventures, founded in 1990 by Bruce Poon Tip, is a global adventure travel company specializing in small-group tours that emphasize authentic, sustainable, and culturally immersive experiences. Originally launched as GAP Adventures (“Great Adventure People”), the company pioneered the concept of community-driven travel by offering affordable trips that connect travelers with local communities while minimizing environmental impact. Today, G Adventures operates in more than 100 countries, offering a wide range of itineraries across themes such as active adventures, wildlife, wellness, family, and National Geographic–partnered tours, while maintaining a strong commitment to responsible tourism and social enterprise through its Planeterra Foundation.

In Business Since 1990

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