Hanoi to the Mekong

Overview

What Makes This Route Work

A journey from one end of the country to the other, with some of Asia's best food along the way. Start with Hanoi's energy and a night on Ha Long Bay, slow down in lantern-lit Hoi An, then finish in the buzz of Ho Chi Minh City and the waterways of the Mekong.

Highlights

• An overnight cruise on Ha Long Bay
• Boating through Trang An in Ninh Binh
• The old town of Hoi An
• The waterways of the Mekong Delta

1. Days 1–3

   Hanoi

   Explore the Old Quarter, the Temple of Literature and the city's street food, with a local guide on the first evening.

2. Days 4–5

   Ha Long Bay

   Board a boat for a night among the limestone islands, with time for kayaking and a quiet sunrise on deck.

3. Days 6–7

   Ninh Binh

   Row through the caves and rice fields of Trang An, then climb the Mua Caves viewpoint for the panorama.

4. Days 8–11

   Hoi An

   Fly south to Hoi An for its lanes, tailors and beaches, with an optional day visiting imperial Hue over the Hai Van Pass.

5. Days 12–14

   Ho Chi Minh City & the Mekong

   See the city's markets and museums, then spend a day on the Mekong Delta's waterways before your flight home.