One of the best ways to truly experience the country’s rich culture, stunning landscapes, and hidden gems is through a small group tour. This personalized approach ensures that you get a more intimate and immersive experience, without the overwhelming feel of large, crowded tours. Plus, with a carefully curated 15 day Vietnam small group tour, you’ll be guided through the country’s most iconic destinations, as well as its lesser-known wonders.

In this itinerary, we’ve put together an exciting and balanced mix of bustling cities, serene countryside, historical landmarks, and the picturesque coastlines Vietnam is famous for. Let’s dive into the full itinerary and see what makes this small group tour the perfect way to experience the best of Vietnam !

What are small group tours ? Why book one ?

A small group tour is a travel experience designed for a limited number of participants. These tours provide a more personal and interactive experience than traditional large tours, where you often get lost in the crowd. With fewer travelers, you can enjoy more direct access to your guide, ask questions, and dive deeper into local cultures.

Small group tours also offer more flexibility and unique experiences, like visiting off-the-beaten-path locations and engaging with local communities. This approach allows you to travel with like-minded individuals, share experiences, and make lifelong memories, while still enjoying a more relaxed and authentic travel vibe.

Read more about the advantages of a small group tour and how you can book one: 

Day 1: Hanoi – Arrival

Your adventure begins as soon as you arrive at Nội Bài international airport in Hanoi, the capital of Vietnam. You'll be met by a local guide, who will accompany you to your hotel in the heart of the city. Depending on your arrival time, you'll get to either relax after your flight or start exploring this thousand-year-old city. Hanoi is a captivating blend of ancient history and modernity. The old town, with its narrow streets and street vendors, contrasts with the tree-lined boulevards and French colonial buildings. This first day allows you to adjust to the city before plunging into your 15 day Vietnam small group tour.

Day 2: Hanoi – City tour

This day is entirely dedicated to discovering Hanoi, a city where every street corner tells a story. You'll start with a visit to the mausoleum of Ho Chi Minh, the founding father of modern Vietnam, followed by a tour of the One Pillar Pagoda, a fascinating Buddhist symbol dating back to the 11th century. The morning continues with a stroll to the Temple of Literature, a temple dedicated to Confuscious, and Quoc Tu Giam, which was Vietnam's first university. Then on to the Ethnology Museum, where you'll discover the diversity of the country's 54 ethnic groups. In the afternoon, you'll visit Hoan Kiem Lake and the famous Red Bridge, before strolling through the lively alleys of the Old Quarter. This district, with its colonial houses and hidden temples, is the beating heart of Hanoi. In the evening, you can either go on a food tour right here in the Old Quarter, savoring some of Hanoi’s spectacular cuisine, or visit Thang Long Water Puppet Theatre for a performance you won’t be able to find elsewhere!

Day 3: Hanoi – Pu Luong

After an early breakfast, you'll leave the hustle and bustle of Hanoi for Pu Luong, a nature reserve around 4 hours away. The drive takes you through spectacular landscapes of rice terraces and verdant mountains. Pu Luong is a region still untouched by mass tourism, offering a peaceful and authentic setting. On arrival, you'll be accommodated in a traditional ecolodge or guesthouse, surrounded by nature. You'll then take an initial walk to explore the surrounding area and meet the local villagers, mainly from the Thai and Muong ethnic minorities.

Day 4: Pu Luong – Hiking

This day will be devoted to an in-depth exploration of Pu Luong on foot. A guided hike will take you through mountain trails, rice terraces, and bamboo forests. You'll discover the way of life of the local people, who live in harmony with nature, mainly practicing rice cultivation and animal husbandry. Lunch will be taken in a local house, a unique opportunity to taste typical dishes prepared with fresh local ingredients. In the afternoon, you'll continue your hike along rivers and traditional water mills. Pu Luong's landscapes, with their verdant valleys and hilltop villages, are among the most beautiful in Vietnam.  The breathtaking views from the mountain trails will be a highlight of your 15 day Vietnam small group tour, offering a glimpse of Vietnam’s unspoiled nature.

Day 5: Pu Luong – Ninh Binh

After breakfast, your tour continues with a 3-hour drive to Ninh Binh, known for its breathtaking scenery and historical significance. Often called the "Halong Bay on land," Ninh Binh boasts towering limestone karsts, lush valleys, and winding rivers. In the afternoon, take a boat ride through the iconic Tam Coc or Trang An landscapes. As you glide down the river, you’ll pass through limestone caves and peaceful countryside, with locals paddling boats using their feet! Wrap up your day with a visit to Bich Dong Pagoda, a set of three-tiered caves with panoramic views.

Day 6: Ninh Binh

Kick off the day with a visit to Hang Mua Viewpoint, one of Ninh Binh’s most photogenic spots. The 500-step climb might seem daunting, but the reward is well worth it—panoramic views over Tam Coc and the surrounding countryside that will take your breath away. In the afternoon, explore the ancient capital of Hoa Lu, Vietnam’s political center during the 10th and 11th centuries. Visit the temples dedicated to the Dinh and Le dynasties and learn about the country’s early history. For photography enthusiasts, the landscapes in Ninh Binh are simply stunning, making this one of the top spots in your 15 day Vietnam small group tour.

Day 7: Ninh Binh – Halong Bay

Today, you’ll leave the serene landscapes of Ninh Binh behind as you head towards Halong Bay, a UNESCO World Heritage Site and one of Vietnam’s most iconic destinations. The 3.5-hour drive will take you through rural countryside before you arrive at the bay, where thousands of limestone islands rise dramatically from emerald waters. Board a traditional junk boat for a cruise through this otherworldly seascape. Enjoy a fresh seafood lunch onboard as you sail through hidden coves and towering karsts. The afternoon brings opportunities to swim, kayak, or visit some of the bay’s famous caves. In the evening, enjoy dinner on the boat as the sun sets, casting a golden glow over the bay—a truly magical experience.

Day 8: Halong Bay – Hanoi – evening flight to Hue

Wake up to the sight of Halong Bay bathed in morning light. After a light breakfast, you’ll have the chance to take part in optional activities like Tai Chi on deck or visit a local fishing village. Later in the morning, the boat will head back to shore, where you’ll disembark and drive back to Hanoi (a 4-hour drive). In the evening, catch a short flight to Hue, Vietnam’s imperial city, known for its rich cultural heritage and royal history. You’ll check into your hotel and have the night to rest or explore the local street food scene.

Day 9: Hue – City tour

Start your exploration of Hue with a visit to the Imperial City, the former capital of the Nguyen Dynasty. Then, head to the famous Thien Mu Pagoda, one of the oldest in Vietnam. At the pagoda, you’ll see the iconic blue Austin car that belonged to Thich Quang Duc, the monk who famously self-immolated in 1963 to protest the persecution of Buddhists. Afterward, take a stroll through Dong Ba Market, where locals sell fresh produce, handicrafts, and snacks. Be sure to try some of the market’s delicacies like Bun Bo Hue or Banh Khoai, dishes celebrated by Anthony Bourdain during his time in Vietnam.

Day 10: Hue – Hoi An

After a leisurely morning, depart for Hoi An, taking the scenic coastal route over the Hai Van Pass You’ll arrive in Hoi An by early afternoon, just in time to explore this charming town. Once a major trading port, Hoi An is now a UNESCO World Heritage Site famous for its well-preserved ancient buildings, lantern-lit streets, and vibrant cultural scene. Take a leisurely walking tour to discover the Japanese Covered Bridge, old merchant houses, and Chinese temples. 

In the evening, don’t miss the chance to sample some of  Hoi An’s famous street food. This town is famous for dishes like Cao Lau, a unique noodle dish, Banh Xeo (crispy pancakes), and the iconic white rose dumplings. For drinks, don't miss a refreshing herbal Mót tea, a unique drink made with spices and herbs, such as lemongrass, honeysuckle, cinnamon, and lotus. Hoi An is also renowned for its skilled tailors, so take this opportunity to get tailor-made clothes or custom jewelry designed just for you. You can have a bespoke outfit ready within 24 hours!

Day 11: Hoi An – countryside exploration

Today, you have options. For a cultural experience, visit one of the traditional craft villages near Hoi An, such as Kim Bong Carpentry Village or Thanh Ha Pottery Village, where artisans have honed their crafts for generations. Alternatively, you can visit Tra Que Village, a peaceful farming village where you can learn how locals grow vegetables using organic methods, and try your hands at making some Vietnamese dishes. After a day of exploring, enjoy a tranquil bike ride through rice paddies or return to the town to explore the lantern-lit streets.

Day 12: Hoi An - Ho Chi Minh City

On the twelfth day, you'll fly out to Ho Chi Minh City (formerly Saigon), Vietnam's largest city. On arrival, you'll discover the fascinating contrasts between old and new, with French colonial buildings rubbing shoulders with modern skyscrapers. You'll visit sites such as the Reunification Palace, Notre-Dame Cathedral, and the Central Post Office, before enjoying a stroll through Ben Thanh Market, where you can sample a multitude of local culinary specialties.

In Saigon, you’ll be spoiled for choice when it comes to food. Be sure to try Banh Mi Ba Huynh, a Vietnamese baguette sandwich stuffed with fillings, or enjoy a satisfying plate of Com Tam, or Vietnamese broken rice. Protip: choose a Com Tam stall that has lots of smoke coming out of it, that’s how you know it’s gonna be good! If you’re craving something sweet, try Che, a refreshing Vietnamese dessert made with beans, fruit, and coconut milk, or have an iced coffee to go!

Day 13: HCM – Ben Tre – Tra Vinh

Day 13 marks the start of a fascinating adventure in one of Vietnam's most emblematic regions: the Mekong Delta. You'll leave the hustle and bustle of Ho Chi Minh City early in the morning for a two-hour journey to Ben Tre, a province known as “the coconut kingdom”. Upon arrival in Ben Tre, you'll embark on a relaxing cruise aboard a small traditional boat, sailing through the many canals and tributaries of the Mekong, lined with coconut palms and mangroves.

Your first port of call will be a visit to an artisanal coconut processing workshop. Ben Tre is renowned for its coconut-derived products, used in food, handicrafts, and cosmetics. You'll witness the making of coconut candies, coconut milk, and other traditional products while discovering the ancestral techniques of local artisans. In the afternoon, a boat trip through the shady canals will give you a new perspective on the delta. At the end of the day, you'll take the road to Tra Vinh. Arrive in Tra Vinh in the evening, where you’ll spend the night at Mekong Garden Resort (Tra Vinh Lodge). This peaceful resort is the perfect place to unwind amidst the serene beauty of the Mekong Delta. You'll have the opportunity to enjoy a traditional Vietnamese dinner, prepared with fresh local specialties.

Day 14: Tra Vinh – Long Xuyen – Cu Lao Ong Ho

On day 14, you'll continue your exploration of the Mekong Delta, this time heading for Long Xuyen, a major delta town in An Giang province. On the way, you'll stop off at Cu Lao Ong Ho, also known as Tiger Island, an enchanting spot in the heart of the Mekong. This small island is famous for its abundant orchards and tranquil ambiance, far from the crowds. Cu Lao Ong Ho is a haven of peace where you can stroll through alleys of tropical fruit, while enjoying the island's gentle way of life.

It’s a great opportunity to take a boat tour around the island, see traditional farming methods, and enjoy a home-cooked meal with a local family. This is a day filled with local culture and tranquility, offering a perfect contrast to the busy city life.

Day 15: Long Xuyen (floating market) – Sa Dec – Saigon – Departure

On your final day, visit the Long Xuyen Floating Market, where locals buy and sell goods directly from their boats. This market is less touristy than others in the region, offering an authentic experience. It also operates all day instead of early morning, so you won’t have to worry about waking up too early!  This market is an explosion of color, sound, and fragrance. Unlike land markets, here everything happens on the water: dozens of boats laden with fruit, vegetables, fish, and other goods move and gather to trade. You'll have the chance to hop aboard a small boat to mingle with the hustle and bustle of the floating market.

Afterward, travel to Sa Dec, a charming town famous for its beautiful flower gardens and the ancient house of Huynh Thuy Le, the lover of French novelist Marguerite Duras. After exploring Sa Dec, drive back to Ho Chi Minh City for your departure, concluding your incredible 15 day small group tour in Vietnam. In the late evening, you'll be transferred to the airport for your return flight.

Embarking on a 15 day small group tour in Vietnam allows you to see Vietnam’s highlights and hidden gems at a comfortable, unhurried pace. This tour offers the perfect mix of adventure, cultural immersion, and relaxation. Plus, with the intimacy of a small group, you’ll forge stronger connections with your fellow travelers and the local communities you visit. 

So, whether you’re trekking through lush landscapes, cruising on a sampan in the Mekong Delta, or dining on world-class Vietnamese cuisine, this tour promises an unforgettable journey through one of Southeast Asia’s most captivating countries. Ready to explore Vietnam? Book a tour today with Vietnam Original Travel!

=> Vietnam Itinerary 2 weeks

=> 6 Reasons To Choose Small Group Tours in Vietnam