Day 7: Khuoi Ky – Ban Gioc Waterfalls – Cao Bang
On day 7 of our Vietnam 3 week itinerary north to south, my family set off toward the famous Ban Gioc waterfall, considered the most beautiful in northern Vietnam. The waterfall, majestic and powerful, lay on the border with China, with the river forming a natural link between the two countries. As we approached, we were overwhelmed by a sense of wonder. The waterfall, cascading with force and grace, offered a breathtaking spectacle, and we felt small in the face of such natural power.
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During our Vietnam itinerary 3 weeks, we spent the morning exploring this natural wonder, completely captivated by its beauty. After taking the time to admire this incredible place, we stopped at a local restaurant for lunch, enjoying fresh and authentic dishes from the region.
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In the afternoon, we continued our 21 days in Vietnam adventure by heading towards the Nguom Ngao cave, located just a few kilometers from the waterfalls. The cave, carved by nature in a limestone mountain range, was a true geological masterpiece. As we entered, a sense of mystery and calm washed over us, heightened by the beauty of the stalactites and stalagmites adorning the walls. It was a magical place that left us all speechless, impressed by the grandeur and serenity it exuded. We arrived in Cao Bang later in the day, tired but thrilled by our discoveries, and enjoyed a free dinner with local specialties before spending a peaceful night in this tranquil city.
Day 8: Cao Bang - Dong Khe (Colonial Route 4) - Lang Son
On the 8th day of my 21-day itinerary in Vietnam, we headed toward Dong Khe, accompanied by Mr. Lam, a former lieutenant colonel, who shared the history of the Battle of Colonial Route 4. His poignant stories connected us to this heroic past. After a few kilometers on a bumpy road, we reached the Quang Liet valley, where we enjoyed a one-and-a-half-hour hike along the river. The landscape was stunning, and the peaceful village of Coc Xa, nestled at the foot of a cliff, left a lasting impression on us.
Explore Vietnam itinerary 3 weeks, back in Dong Khe, we visited a war memorial, a place for respect and reflection. After a free lunch, we continued on to Lang Son, a border city near China. There, we had the choice between the calm and mystical Tam Thanh Cave or the bustling Ky Lua central market, a reflection of cultural exchanges. The free dinner in Lang Son was delightful, and we spent the night at the hotel, ready for a new day after this fascinating exploration.
Day 9: Lang Son - Halong Bay by Car
This morning, at 7:30 am, we left the hotel, eager to explore Ha Long Bay. On our way to the Tuan Chau port, we made a coffee stop, savoring a local drink in the tranquility of the countryside. By noon, we arrived at the dock and boarded a luxury junk boat for an unforgettable adventure during our 3-week trip to Vietnam. During lunch, we were surrounded by spectacular landscapes with 1,969 karst islands rising from the water. Dog Islet, Rooster Islet, and the fishing villages created an idyllic setting. It was a moment of absolute serenity, where we felt completely disconnected.
After lunch, we took a small boat to explore Sung Sot cave, impressed by its stunning rock formations and grandeur. The dinner on board, featuring Vietnamese specialties, was accompanied by the sunset over the bay, creating magical reflections on the water. After this wonderful day, we settled into our private cabin, ready to spend the night rocked by the beauty of the place in 3 weeks in Vietnam.
Days 10 - 11: Halong Bay - Ninh Binh - Tam Coc - Hanoi
On that morning, we woke up early to witness a magical sunrise over Halong Bay on day 10 of three week vietnam itinerary. The limestone islands slowly emerged in the soft morning light, a peaceful sight that filled us with serenity and wonder. After this unforgettable moment, we enjoyed breakfast on board, taking in panoramic views of the floating islands and turquoise waters. Around lunchtime, we savored fresh dishes aboard the junk while admiring the final views before heading back to the dock. Already nostalgic for the bay, we left this magical landscape and made our way to Ninh Binh.
In the late afternoon, we arrived in Tam Coc and checked into our hotel. If the weather allowed, a bike ride awaited us to explore the peaceful and spiritual Bich Dong pagoda. The free dinner provided an opportunity to taste local cuisine and unwind after an intense day. We spent the night in Tam Coc, eager to discover more of this fascinating region.
The next morning, around 8:30 AM, we boarded a small boat, gently gliding on the water surrounded by majestic mountains and vast reed valleys, as mentioned in the Vietnam 21-day itinerary. The "Terrestrial Ha Long Bay" captivated us with its wild and tranquil beauty, with egrets adding to the magic of the moment. After this experience, we had lunch at a local restaurant, savoring the authentic flavors of the region. In the afternoon, we continued our journey back to Hanoi, where we enjoyed a final free dinner before resting for the night, ready for the next leg of our adventure.
Days 12 - 13 : Hanoi - Flight toi Hue. take a city tour
During our 3-week trip to Vietnam, we had a bit of free time to enjoy Hanoi before our flight to Hue. Late in the morning, we were transferred to the airport for a 2-hour flight. Upon arrival in Hue, a driver took us to our hotel, where the warmth and hospitality of the imperial city immersed us in its historical atmosphere. The day ended with a relaxing moment at the hotel, preparing us to discover the city's rich history the next day.
After a hearty breakfast, we began our exploration of Hue, the former imperial capital. In the morning, we visited Hue Imperial Citadel, a UNESCO World Heritage site, admiring its majestic architecture. We started at the Noon Gate, where the emperor made important decisions, before discovering the Pavilion of Edicts, the Palace of the Supreme Harmony, and the Forbidden Purple City, all immersed in imperial grandeur. A fascinating exhibition of photographs tracing the history of the Vietnamese emperors enriched our visit.
In the afternoon, we explored Tu Duc royal tomb, an impressive baroque masterpiece with stylized roofs and imperial symbols. The day ended with a free dinner, allowing us to sample local flavors. We spent the night in Hue, filled with culture and history, ready to continue our exploration the next day during our Vietnam 3 week itinerary north to south.
Days 14 - 15: Hue – Da Nang - Hoi An - Ecotour
After breakfast, we took the Mandarine route, crossing the Cloudy Pass, where the spectacular view of Da Nang left us in awe. In the city, we visited the Cham Art Museum, discovering ancient sculptures. In the afternoon, we reached Hoi An and its UNESCO-listed old town, which immediately charmed us. We explored the Japanese bridge, the Antiquities Museum, and the Chuc Thanh pagoda, while strolling through the small shops and colorful lanterns. After a free dinner, we spent the night in a picturesque hotel near the historic center.
The next morning, during our three week Vietnam itinerary, we cycled through rice fields and peaceful villages. The tranquil landscapes amazed Emma and Lucas, while Marie and I felt deeply connected to nature. Arriving at the fishing village of Van Lang, the Bay Mau coconut forest, with its canals and traditional houses, captivated us. My two children were fascinated by the calm and magical atmosphere, and my wife took an interest in the history shared by Mr. Han and his family.
The moment aboard the wicker boat, gliding along the canals, was unforgettable. Lucas and Emma loved watching the traditional fishing techniques, and Marie learned about the local methods. Afterward, a medicinal herb foot bath brought us relaxation and well-being. The traditional lunch of Tam Huu spring rolls, Banh Xeo, and grilled fish was a delight. Back at the hotel, we were all content, our hearts filled with precious memories.
Day 16: Hoi An - Da Nang – Flight to Saigon
After 15 days of unforgettable discoveries in our 3-week Vietnam trip, we took our flight from Da Nang to Saigon. The 2-hour journey was smooth, and the excitement of discovering Vietnam's largest city made the flight even more thrilling. My whole family was eager to dive into the vibrant energy of Saigon. Upon arrival, a smiling driver took us to our hotel. The contrast with the tranquility of the rural areas we'd previously visited was striking. Emma, full of energy, was already ready to explore the city, while Lucas, more calm, observed the hustle and bustle of the motorbikes and urban life with fascination.
In the afternoon, we explored Ho Chi Minh City by visiting iconic sites, including a masterpiece of colonial architecture that particularly impressed my wife. Emma played on the large square, while Lucas took in the details of the facade. The Saigon Opera House, nearby, impressed us with its grandeur and calm, offering a stark contrast to the busy city life.
3 weeks in Vietnam, we discovered Notre-Dame Cathedral, another colonial relic that fascinated my wife, who compared it to the one in Paris. Emma loved posing in front of the facade. After visiting the Central Post Office, influenced by Gustave Eiffel, we explored the Reunification Palace, where the surrounding large park allowed us to relax while reflecting on Vietnam's history.
Throughout the day, we admired Saigon's diversity and energy. My wife and I exchanged impressions, while the children, ever curious, asked a thousand questions. In the evening, we savored pho and banh mi at a local restaurant before heading back to our hotel, content after this immersion in the city’s history and culture.
Day 17: Saigon - Ben Tre - Mekong Delta
Our day in Ben Tre began with an early departure to the Ham Luong pier, where we boarded a peaceful cruise on the Mekong River, discovering local fishing techniques and water transfer systems. As part of our 21-day Vietnam tour, we visited a traditional brick kiln, a coconut product workshop, and then a mat-weaving workshop, with a break to enjoy fresh fruits and local tea.
Take 3 week trip to Vietnam, We then crossed rice fields in a motorized cart before enjoying a traditional lunch at the Hai Ho family home, which amazed everyone. After lunch, we took a rowboat ride before heading to our homestay for the night. The warm welcome from the local family deeply touched us. In the evening, we explored the village and enjoyed a delicious dinner, followed by a relaxing foot bath with medicinal herbs. This one day trip in Ben Tre was the perfect blend of cultural discoveries and peaceful moments, leaving us with a deep sense of serenity.
Day 18: Ben Tre - Tra Vinh - Cau Ke
Take vietnam 3 week itinerary north to south, the journey to Tra Vinh took us to the heart of Mekong Delta, a region deeply influenced by Khmer culture, with touches of Kinh and Hoa influences. On the way, we made a stop at a charming bonsai garden, where our two children were fascinated by the creative shapes of the trees. Upon arriving in Tra Vinh, we visited the Ang Pagoda, a 10th-century gem, and then explored the Khmer Culture Museum, where my daughter and I were deeply moved by the local history and traditions.
After a leisurely lunch, we headed to Sounsia Homestay, where a local family warmly welcomed us as part of our 3-week Vietnam tour. The afternoon was a serene moment, with a walk through the countryside, giving us a glimpse into the daily life of the locals. In the evening, we spent the night with the family in Cau Ke, a peaceful place that allowed us to recharge and enjoy the tranquility of the delta. It was a day filled with discoveries, marked by the hospitality of the locals and the beauty of the place.
Day 19: Tra Vinh - Con Son - Can Tho
On day 19 of our 3-week Vietnam tour, we began the day with a two-hour bike ride through the peaceful countryside, crossing a large river on a public ferry. Pedaling through villages lined with rice fields, we discovered the simple and authentic life of the locals. Lucas and Emma loved stopping to admire the Khmer pagodas and visiting the ancient house of Huynh Ky, while Marie and I were captivated by the serenity of the surroundings.
After a leisurely lunch, we headed to Can Tho, the largest city in the Mekong Delta. Upon arrival, we visited Con Son, with its floating farms and a variety of colorful fish. We also explored the region's tropical orchards, delighted by the diversity of fruits. The day ended with a free dinner and a night in Can Tho, marking a day full of emotions and family discoveries.
Day 20: Can Tho - Cai Rang Floating Market - Saigon
Visiting Cai Rang floating market was an unforgettable sensory experience. The vibrant colors of the local fruits and the enchanting aromas of fresh produce amazed my children, while Marie and I were captivated by the hustle and bustle of the market and the lively exchanges between the vendors.
In our 3 week trip to Vietnam, we then explored the Ba Hien fruit garden, a peaceful haven surrounded by exotic plants and lush orchards, where we took the time to relax. A visit to a traditional noodle factory in Can Tho added a unique touch to this Vietnam itinerary 3 weeks. After this enriching morning, we resumed our journey to Saigon, enjoying a leisurely lunch on the way. Upon arrival, we had some free time to explore or unwind. The day ended with a free dinner and a night at the hotel, all of us filled with joy from this wonderful family adventure, satisfied after a day of exploring the Mekong Delta.
Day 21: Saigon. Departure
On the last day of our Vietnam 3 week itinerary north to south, we had a free day in Saigon to rest or do some shopping. My two children picked out souvenirs for their friends, while Marie and I took the time to enjoy the city's atmosphere.
The transfer to the airport went smoothly, but the emotion of leaving this fascinating country set in. Tired but with hearts full of memories, we left Saigon, knowing that this adventure had brought us closer together. As we checked out at 12:00, a wave of melancholy washed over me, but also a deep gratitude for the moments we had shared. This adventure marked the end of our Vietnam itinerary 3 weeks, but the beginning of memories that will last a lifetime.
This 21-day Vietnam itinerary was a true sensory odyssey. Each day was a wonderful discovery, a blend of stunning landscapes, enriching encounters, and precious family moments. The memories are etched in our hearts, and even though we would have loved to explore more of this fascinating country, its hidden shores, remote villages, and secret landscapes, it is impossible to experience it all in just one adventure. A sweet melancholy accompanies us when we think of the places we didn’t have the time to visit. But this 3-week Vietnam itinerary will forever remain a source of inspiration and an unforgettable memory.
A big thank you to the AUTOUR ASIA team for organizing this exceptional 3-week Vietnam trip, paying attention to every detail and providing us with an unforgettable, tailor-made experience. Thanks to them, our adventure was much more than just a trip – it was a true immersion into the heart of the 21-day Vietnam trip. We leave with stars in our eyes and unforgettable memories, eagerly looking forward to our next exploration of this incredible country. Thank you for everything.
FR
ITA
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