Last Updated on July 12, 2024 by Lohanna Reis

13 excellent and different guided tours around Vietnam. Tours with a variety of prices, days, destinations, themes, age, level of luxury, and adventure.

Vietnam is a rising tourist destination that has captivated visitors from around the world with its stunning natural beauty, rich cultural heritage and fascinating history. With a spectacular stretch of coastline, picturesque mountains and bustling cities, Vietnam offers a diverse experience for all types of travelers.

One of Vietnam’s most notable attractions is its stunning landscape. Halong Bay, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, is famous for its limestone formations and crystal clear waters. Many visitors choose to cruise this spectacular area. Additionally, the white sand beaches along the coast of Vietnam, such as Da Nang and Nha Trang, are heavenly havens for sun and sea lovers.

 

 

The country’s cultural richness is evident in its architecture, cuisine and festivals. Cities like Hanoi and Ho Chi Minh City present an intriguing mix of tradition and modernity, with ancient temples contrasting with gleaming skyscrapers.

Vietnamese food is acclaimed worldwide, with dishes like pho and bun cha being unmissable culinary delights. Vietnamese festivals, such as Tet (Lunar New Year), offer a fascinating insight into the local culture.

Furthermore, Vietnam has a rich history, marked by events such as the Vietnam War. Visits to historic sites such as the War Museum in Ho Chi Minh City and the Cu Chi Tunnels provide a deeper understanding of this turbulent period.

For nature lovers, the Sapa Mountains and Phong Nha-Ke Bang National Park offer incredible trekking and cave exploring opportunities. Tourism in Vietnam is also driven by the warm hospitality of the Vietnamese people, who welcome visitors with open arms.

 

 

Top 10 Tourist Attractions in Vietnam

Before we delve into the central topic of this article, it is important to highlight some of the most sought-after tourist destinations in Vietnam to assist in researching tours, itineraries, and trips that cater to your preferences.

As previously mentioned, Vietnam is a charming nation. Below, we have compiled a list of the 10 top attractions and cities in Vietnam that are worth visiting:

1. Halong Bay: This UNESCO World Heritage site is renowned for its limestone rock formations, picturesque coves, and breathtaking cruises.
2. Hanoi: The Vietnamese capital is a melting pot of culture, featuring ancient temples, bustling streets, and incredible cuisine.
3. Hoi An Ancient Town: A well-preserved historical city filled with traditional architecture, colorful lanterns, and lively markets.
4. Ho Chi Minh City: Formerly Saigon, this city is the commercial and cultural hub of Vietnam, with museums, markets, and a lot of history.
5. Phong Nha-Ke Bang National Park: A paradise for nature lovers, with spectacular caves and lush landscapes.
6. Sapa: Located in the northern mountains, Sapa offers spectacular trails and hikes, along with panoramic mountain views.
7. Hue: This historical city was the former imperial capital of Vietnam and is home to the UNESCO-listed Imperial Citadel.
8. Mekong Delta: A maze of canals, floating villages, and street markets where you can explore everyday life in Vietnam.
9. My Son Temple: This archaeological site houses the ruins of Hindu temples built by the Champa Empire, also classified as a World Heritage site.
10. Nha Trang: A coastal city known for its white sandy beaches, diving, nightlife, and luxury resorts.

 

Is it better to travel independently or in group tours in Vietnam?

Regardless of the option you choose for traveling to Vietnam, whether independently or in a group tour, each has its pros and cons.

Opting for independent travel, for example, provides greater flexibility to plan your own itinerary and choose activities according to your preferences. You’ll have the freedom to decide when and how to engage in activities, allowing you to explore Vietnam at your own pace. Additionally, this option can be more budget-friendly, as you can control expenses based on your choices.

 

 

However, independent travel requires detailed planning, including research on accommodation, transportation, and activities. You need to be prepared to handle potential challenges, such as language barriers, and take extra precautions regarding safety, especially in more remote areas.

On the other hand, a group tour with a guide offers the companionship of fellow travelers and the opportunity to meet people with similar interests. Traveling in a group can also provide a sense of security, especially if accompanied by an experienced guide well-versed in Vietnam.

However, this option may somewhat limit your freedom to explore Vietnam independently, as you will be following a predetermined itinerary and schedules set by the group.

In summary, the choice between traveling independently or in a group in Vietnam depends on your personal preferences. Evaluate your interests, time availability, budget, and comfort level when making your decision.

 

Pros of traveling on a group tour	Pros of traveling on your own
Company and opportunity to meet people with similar interests	Flexibility to create your own itinerary and choose activities
Peaceful and fun group experience	Autonomy to follow your own schedule
More safety when riding in a group, especially with an experienced local guide	Freedom to explore Iceland without having to stick to a schedule
Less need for planning and research as the tour already provides accommodation, transport and activities	Potential savings, since depending on the choices it can be cheaper
Possibility of access to places or activities that may be difficult or impossible to reach alone	Greater challenge and opportunity to learn and grow with the experience of planning and conducting your own trip

 

13 Best Tours and Itineraries to Explore Vietnam

 

Best Vietnam Tours and Itineraries for Guided Small Group Adventures

 

   1. G Adventures – Classic Vietnam: Hanoi to Ho Chi Minh City (10 Days)
Sail among the limestone formations aboard a traditional reed boat and explore the streets of the imperial capitals.

From vibrant Hanoi, the natural beauty of Halong Bay, the atmosphere of the imperial capital of Huế and the charm of Hoi An to the modern life of Saigon, experience the energy of Vietnam on an activity-packed 10-day itinerary. An experienced Experience Chef will guide you around the must-see sights, with free time to explore on your own.

 

   2. G Adventures – Ultimate Vietnam (16 Days)
If you’re not looking for the most immersive Vietnam experience, stop reading these words, because this 16-day, hostel-stayed adventure has it all covered.

Enjoy the hustle and bustle of cities in Hanoi, Hoi An and Ho Chi Minh City with street dining, unique tours and local bars. You’ll travel back roads, walk through rice fields, explore historic tunnels, and hike through majestic mountains to capture incredible photos like never before on your Instagram feed.

End your adventure by visiting not one, but two beach destinations for fun, relaxation and exciting nightlife.

 

 

   3. Encounters Travel – Vietnam Encounters (11 Days)
This comprehensive tour of Vietnam features the country’s top tourist highlights, combined with some less-visited rural areas, local encounters, and authentic activities.

We started in Hanoi, with the opportunity to join locals at the lake for morning Tai Chi practice. Or, if you prefer, you can rest a little longer and then join the group for a Vietnamese language lesson before we explore some of Hanoi’s important monuments.

In the afternoon, enjoy a stroll through the narrow streets of the old quarter, discovering many delicious flavors of Vietnamese street food.

 

 

   4. Intrepid – Vietnam Express Northbound (10 Days) 
Go behind the scenes of Vietnam’s most popular destinations on a small-group adventure that avoids the tourists.

From the bustling center of Ho Chi Minh City to the enchanting capital Hanoi, experience the beautiful landscapes, historic monuments and delicious cuisine along the way as you travel the country from south to north like a local.

Paddle the waterways of the Mekong Delta in a sampan, explore remote villages by tuk-tuk, sail the waters of Halong Bay in a traditional boat, stroll the car-free streets of Hoi An on foot, and discover imperial icons from Huế on the back of a motorbike, and with the guidance of your knowledgeable local leader, you’ll discover secrets of this Southeast Asian treasure that you simply wouldn’t find in a travel guide.

 

 

Best Vietnam Tours and Itineraries for Young Single Groups (Ages 18-35)

 

   5. Contiki – Vietnam Experience (12 Days) 
This 12-day Vietnam itinerary takes you to Ho Chi Minh, Hoi An, Hanoi and Halong Bay, with plenty of action and highlights to immerse you in this enchanting culture.

Imagine yourself enjoying the Mekong Delta rice region as you cruise on a traditional boat past floating markets and local fruit farms, stopping at exciting spots and iconic popular food spots for a true Vietnam travel experience.

 

 

   6. Contiki – Vietnam Highlights (10 Days)
The perfect way to experience the best of Vietnam in no time. Experience the hustle and bustle of Ho Chi Minh City and Hanoi, relax and soak up the sun on a beach in Nha Trang, explore Hoi An by bike and enjoy the incredible landscapes of Huế.

Later, sit back and discover the incredible limestone formations of Halong Bay aboard a traditional reed boat as you indulge in Vietnam’s most incredible places.

 

 

   7. Topdeck – Delve Deep: Vietnam & Cambodia (11 Days)
Vietnam and Cambodia are famous around the world for their breathtaking natural beauty, ancient architecture and unique cultures. And this trip? She’s here to help you see the best they both have to offer. We are talking about incredible cities. Fascinating story. Tropical landscapes. Food that can really change your life.

 

Best Luxury and Comfort Tours and Itineraries in Vietnam for Small Groups with Guides

   8. Trafalgar – Highlights of Vietnam (12 Days) 
Sail the sparkling emerald waters of Halong Bay aboard a traditional Vietnamese boat. Glide past hidden islets, towering limestone formations and colorful fishing villages, stopping only to learn about the lives of local fishermen in Cua Van and to practice T’ai Chi in stunning surroundings.

 

 

   9. Trafalgar – Vietnam and the Temples of Angkor (16 Days)
Journey from the beauty of Halong Bay to a chilling encounter with the abandoned capital of Angkor Thom, left in ruins deep in the dense Cambodian jungle, revealing stories of a once-mighty Khmer empire whose ancient temples, tombs and shrines were left fallow by centuries.

 

   

   10. Trafalgar – Vietnam and Cambodia Tour (18 Days) 

Travel from the beauty of Ha Long Bay for a chilling encounter with the abandoned capital of Angkor Thom, left in ruins deep in the dense Cambodian jungle, and head to Phnom Penh – a city that has risen from the past to reclaim its reputation as the ‘Pearl’ of Asia’.

Best tours to Vietnam from Tourradar (best site to search and compare tours in Vietnam of different durations, styles, prices, and operators)

 

   11. Tourradar – Northern Vietnam Cultural (5 Days)
Start and end in Hanoi! With the cultural tour you will have a 5-day travel package that will take you to Hanoi, Vietnam, and three other destinations in Vietnam. The 5-day tour of northern Vietnam includes accommodation, an expert guide, meals and more.

 

 

   12. Tourradar – From the Mekong Delta to Siem Reap (9 Days)
Start in Ho Chi Minh City and end in Siem Reap! With the tour you have a 9-day travel package that will take you to Ho Chi Minh City, Vietnam, and 10 other destinations in Asia. Includes hotel accommodation, as well as an expert guide, insurance, meals, transport and more.

 

 

   13. Tourradar – Full Moon Festival Express (8 Days)  
Start and end in Hanoi! With the tour you get an 8-day travel package that will take you to Hanoi, Vietnam. The tour includes hotel accommodation as well as an expert guide, meals, transportation and more.

 

 

Concluding…

Vietnam is a fascinating destination for those seeking cultural, historical and adventure experiences.

With a wide variety of tour and excursion options available, it is essential to carry out careful research before choosing the company that best meets your needs and expectations. Check reviews from other travelers and details of accommodations offered. This is essential to ensure a smooth and safe journey.

However, regardless of which company you choose, one thing is certain: visiting Vietnam is a truly once-in-a-lifetime experience! So, get ready for an unforgettable journey and embark on this adventure across the country!

 

Planning your next trip?

Then don’t forget travel insurance! You don’t want to get stuck paying a ton of money and ruining your trip if you get sick or have an accident without travel insurance. Our page with The 3 Best and Cheapest Travel Insurance on the Market can help you choose the right plan and will give you some discount coupons for the biggest insurance companies!

 

 Already reserved your hotel or hostel? If not, our article with The 6 Best and Cheapest Websites to Find & Reserve Accommodation can help you out. You’ll also find some promotions and discount codes.

 

 Still haven’t booked your plane ticket and want to save big? Take a look at our page with 16 Tips to Save on Flights where you’ll also find the 4 best websites to buy your plane tickets. 

 

And finally, will you need to rent a car during your trip? Then surely our page with The 5 Best and Cheapest Websites to Compare and Rent Cars Around the World will help you choose the best rental car and find a good deal.