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Countryside & Caves by Train

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Experience Travel Group

Countryside & Caves by Train

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Vietnam has an extensive network of domestic flights, so it’s tempting to fly around all over the place and pack loads in. But travelling a little more slowly by train can be hugely rewarding and fun! This holiday includes an overnight journey and two-day trains as you traverse the country from Hanoi to the Central Coast. You’ll visit some beautiful hotels along the way.  

This trip suggestion works particularly well for families travelling in Spring and Summer since this is the best time to visit Phong Nha Caves and the Central Coast. It avoids the southern part of the country, where the weather is less favourable in the summer months. 

Highlights include 

  • Slurp noodles in the hustle and bustle of the capital Hanoi
  • Explore Hoi An, and soak up the culture in the old town
  • Adventure in the limestone karst landscape of Phong Nha Ke Bang National Park
  • Enjoy a breathtakingly beautiful beach resort on a remote peninsula in Phu Yen province

As with our suggested itineraries, we can change this holiday to suit your budget, style and expectations. Please find out about our exclusive Journey Planner here.

DAY 1, DEPART THE UK 

Depart the UK on your overnight flight to Hanoi 

DAY 2-4  HANOI       

Hanoi is alive with culture, history, and local day-to-day life bustling around you. Travelling by jeep and cyclo, you'll learn a little about the cultural traditions, get lost in the hidden alleyways of the old quarter and taste some of the street food, ice cream (and beer) for which Hanoi is famous. 

We highly recommend rising (really) early at least once if you can bear it. Joining the locals practising badminton, t'ai chi and aerobics around the lake at sunrise is an experience you'll never forget.   

DAY 5 OVERNIGHT TRAIN TO DONG HOI   

After dinner on Day 6, you'll board the "Reunification Express". Bunk up in a sleeper cabin as the train weaves south to Dong Hoi. 

DAY 6 - 8 PHONG NHA KE BANG NATIONAL PARK     

You'll arrive at Dong Hoi early and transfer to your accommodation on the edge of Phong Nha-Ke Bang National Park.  

This remarkable national park is one of the world's largest limestone regions and is home to one of the world's largest caves. You can choose to explore the impressive caves and caverns, take a leisurely boat trip and do a 3km trek.

Outside the caves, there are numerous activities too, kayaking, trekking, exploring the botanical gardens, taking a bike ride through riverside villages or learning about the significance of the Ho Chi Minh Trails (through which soldiers moved supplies from North to South Vietnam during the war). 

It is possible to take a two-day expedition into the enormous Hang En Cave and camp the night inside, though this option is not suitable for younger children.

DAY 9-11  HOI AN         

Depart your hotel this morning for the early transfer to Dong Hoi, where you'll board the day train to Danang; this route offers some marvellous views of the countryside as you weave south through Hue and the mountains. Disembark the train in Danang, and transfer to your hotel (your choice of town or beach). 

During your three-night stay, there will be the chance to experience the ancient town itself or head out of town to the beach. Hoi An Town is a great place to explore at any time, although it's quieter in the morning. Learn about local traditions, taste some delicious food and explore the local shops and markets. 

You'll also have a chance to spend an afternoon (or morning) exploring the nearby countryside with either a Vespa or bicycle tour of the traditional local farms or fishing villages. 

Day 12-15 Beachfront Bliss in Phu Yen  

Back on the day train today with more great views along the way. Today it's south to Dieu Tri, where on arrival, transfer to a glorious beach resort on a serene peninsula south of Quy Nhon. It is an excellent place to relax, but there is plenty to keep all ages entertained with watersports, tennis, snorkelling, and a kids club if needed.  

Day 16 Fly Home 

Transfer to Quy Nhon and board a domestic flight to Saigon or Hanoi, from which you'll connect to your flight back to the UK. Alternatively, you may wish to stop in Ho Chi Minh City (Saigon) for a few days. Please talk to your travel expert to tailor your perfect itinerary. 

 

 

 

As every holiday is unique to you, prices vary. To give you an indication, our holidays typically cost between £4,000 and £6,000 per adult depending on trip length and time of year as well as the hotels and flights involved. We offer child and seasonal discounts. You can read our ultimate guide to holiday costs in Asia for more in-depth information.

To start your journey, talk to one of our friendly consultants today.

Since every traveler is unique - Call our experts on 1-888-577-8452 to create your personalised vacation itinerary.

Inclusions

Your bespoke proposal with Experience Travel Group will include:

  • International Flights (we can omit if you prefer)
  • Accommodation as described
  • Privately guided tours and transfers
  • Tips for guides and drivers
  • Original Experience Travel Group "signature" experiences 
  • Full financial protection (ABTA and ATOL bonding.) 
  • 24-hour in-country backup while away
  • Your dedicated travel expert in the UK 

You can book this holiday tour on its own, with flights or it can be tailored for you.

Here are the hotels and villas within this holiday as standard...

Aira Boutique

Aira Boutique , Hanoi

Excellent boutique hotel, close to the action on the edge of Hanoi's historic Old Quarter.

Chay Lap Farmstay

Chay Lap Farmstay, Phong Nha-Ke Bang

An oasis of calm and breathtaking countryside on the fringes of beautiful Phong Na-Ke Bang National Park.

Little Riverside

Little Riverside, Hoi An

In a great location overlooking the river, close to the heart of the action in Hoi An.

Zannier Bai San Ho

Zannier Bai San Ho , Phu Yen

Barefoot-luxury retreat with a beautiful half-mile beach on the central coast.

You can book this holiday tour on its own, with flights or it can be tailored for you.

Here are the experiences & activities within this holiday as standard...

Cave and jungle adventures

Cave and jungle adventures, Phong Nha-Ke Bang

Explore incredible caves and lush forests with expert local guides.

Hanoi Family Tour

Hanoi Family Tour, Hanoi

A fun and interesting family adventure in and around Hanoi including culture, adventure and food!

Hanoi's Secret Alleyways

Hanoi's Secret Alleyways, Hanoi

Explore the hidden labyrinths of Hanoi's old quarter and discover secret pagodas and relics.

Hoi An Exploration

Hoi An Exploration , Hoi An

A wonderful way to explore the charming merchant town of Hoi An by foot, by boat and by bicycle.

Museum of Ethnology

Museum of Ethnology, Hanoi

An interactive way to learn about Vietnamese culture and history.

Re-unification Express Train

Re-unification Express Train, Hanoi

An excellent way to get a sense of the country's scale and see the scenery change as you travel from North to South.

The farmer and the fisherman - life in the Hoi An countryside

The farmer and the fisherman - life in the Hoi An countryside, Hoi An

Spend a day learning about farmers and fishermen in Hoi An.

Map showing Hotels & Experiences associated with 'Countryside & Caves by Train'

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  • Destinations
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  • Guide to Vietnam
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    • Central Vietnam
      • Overview
      • Hue
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      • My Son
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      • Demilitarised Zone (DMZ)
    • Southern Vietnam
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      • Ho Chi Minh (Saigon)
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