This tour takes you through Vietnam’s most iconic destinations, from the vibrant streets of Hanoi to the serene waters of Halong Bay, the historical charm of Hue, the coastal city of Da Nang, the ancient town of Hoi An, the bustling energy of Saigon, and the peaceful countryside of Ben Tre in the Mekong Delta. A balanced journey blending culture, history, and natural beauty.
Itinerary
Upon arrival, meet and transfer to the hotel for check-in (Early check-in is NOT included & subject to hotel’s availability).
Accommodation in Hanoi.
Start your day early and head to the Ho Chi Minh Mausoleum, the final resting place of Vietnam's beloved leader, Ho Chi Minh. After that, take a short walk to the nearby One Pillar Pagoda, an iconic Buddhist temple built in a unique architectural style. Next, head to the Temple of Literature, Vietnam's first university and a Confucian temple.
Spend your afternoon exploring Hanoi's bustling Old Quarter, also known as "36 Pho Phuong" (36 Streets). Take a stroll through its narrow, winding streets filled with shops, street vendors, and historical architecture. And visit Hoan Kiem Lake, located in the heart of Hanoi. You can take a leisurely walk around the lake or visit Ngoc Son Temple situated on an islet within the lake. Hanoi is famous for its street food. Try some local snacks like egg coffee, grilled skewers, or fresh spring rolls from street vendors.
Accommodation in Hanoi.
Starting early in the morning from Hanoi to the famous Halong Bay, along the way we can enjoy the landscapes of rice fields, farms and the Red River Delta.
Upon arrival in Halong Bay, board your cruise ship and check into your cabin. Lunch on board is based on seafood and fresh fish. Take some time to relax and enjoy the stunning views of the limestone karsts and emerald waters. In the afternoon, you will have the opportunity to explore magnificent caves. In the evening, there is a special dinner contemplating the sunset, followed by a session of activities on board.
Overnight on board.
Start your day with a refreshing Tai Chi session on the deck, surrounded by the serene beauty of Halong Bay.
Depending on the cruise itinerary, you may have some visits before disembarking from the cruise and transfer to Hanoi airport for the flight to Hue.
Accommodation in Hue.
In the morning, we will take a boat trip on the Perfume River to visit the Thien Mu Pagoda, which is considered the center of Buddhism in Vietnam since the early 1600s. Then, we will continue with a guided tour of the former Imperial Citadel, where we will see the former Imperial Palace, which has a closely similar model to the city Banned from Beijing. French aerial bombardment and the 1968 Tet Offensive caused significant damage to this area; However, much of the city is being restored thanks to UNESCO funding.
In the afternoon, visit the tranquil Tu Duc and Khai Dinh Royal Tombs. Wander through the elegant courtyards of Tu Duc, where the poetic beauty of nature harmonizes with intricate architectural details. Feel the regal ambiance at Khai Dinh, a majestic fusion of Western and Eastern design. These royal resting places offer a serene journey through time, inviting you to explore the rich cultural legacy of Vietnam's dynastic past.
Accommodation in Hue.
Leaving the ancient capital of Hue, we will continue our journey to discover Hoi An, the charming ancient town in the Centre of country. Passing through the enchanting city of Da Nang, the scenic route unfolds as you traverse the picturesque Hai Van Pass, offering breathtaking coastal views. On the way we will explore the Marble Mountains, where ancient pagodas and caves tell tales of Vietnam's spiritual heritage.
Arrival in Hoi An, a UNESCO World Heritage site, we will take a short walking tour of this Ancient Town, where every step unveils a tale of centuries-old charm and cultural richness. Discover architectural treasures that echo the town's international heritage, from ornate Chinese assembly halls to the iconic Japanese Covered Bridge. Immerse yourself in the vibrant tapestry of Hoi An's culture, exploring hidden alleys adorned with lanterns and stumbling upon atmospheric temples.
Accommodation in Hoi An.
Transfer to Da Nang airport for the flight to Ho Chi Minh City, also known as Saigon.
Embark on a captivating exploration of the city, where history and culture converge. Marvel at the architectural grandeur of Notre Dame Cathedral and the timeless charm of the Central Post Office. Step into the pages of history at the Reunification Palace, a symbol of Vietnam's reunification, and gain poignant insights at the War Remnants Museum. Each landmark tells a story, creating a tapestry of experiences that reflects the resilience and vibrancy of Saigon.
Accommodation in Saigon.
Embark on a journey of three hours to the Ben Tre province in the Mekong Delta, renowned for its tropical fruit orchards and traditional coconut craftsmanship. Explore a pineapple and coconut orchard, witness the making of coconut candies in a local workshop, and indulge in tropical fruits from the orchard. Experience a tuk-tuk ride to a small mat-weaving workshop run by a local family, engaging with them to learn traditional techniques passed down through centuries. Along the way, immerse yourself in the serene ambiance of Mekong villages, shaded by narrow streets, and appreciate the tranquility of the surroundings. Transfer back to Saigon.
Accommodation in Saigon.
Free at leisure until indicated time, transfer to Tan Son Nhat airport for the departure flight.