11-Day Scenic Vietnam Tour with Family

Upon arriving in Ho Chi Minh City, our guide and driver will warmly welcome you at the airport and transfer you to your hotel. Ho Chi Minh City, also known as Saigon, is the largest city in Vietnam and offers a vibrant blend of commerce and culture, with its temples and skyscrapers lining the streets. There are plenty of things to do and explore in this dynamic city.

In the evening, around 17:00 PM, we will depart for the A O show, which is a must-see cultural performance in Ho Chi Minh City. The show portrays the beauty and richness of Vietnamese culture, depicting the lives of people in the countryside and the urbanization of the country. The show features a mix of bamboo cirque, acrobatics, contemporary dance, and theatrical visual art, accompanied by live music that echoes the Southern work songs. The show takes place at the historic Saigon Opera House and lasts for approximately 1 hour. After enjoying the performance, we will return to the hotel for overnight stay.

Our knowledgeable guide and experienced driver will pick you up from your hotel and drive for approximately 1.5 hours to My Tho. Along the way, we will make stops for refreshments and restroom breaks.

Upon arrival in My Tho, we will board a motor-boat and cruise through the intricate network of canals and channels, offering breathtaking views of the Mekong River and its four famous islands: Dragon, Unicorn, Turtle, and Phoenix.

We will make a stop at one of the floating fish houses, where local villagers cultivate freshwater fish and shrimp, which are major export products of the region. You will have the opportunity to witness the process and try some of the local products. We will then cross the river to the other side and visit a traditional workshop where you can observe the step-by-step process of making coconut candy and honey farming, while enjoying traditional music. You can also experience a peaceful sampan ride along the shady and breezy canal, and travel through the villages on a local transportation called Xe Loi.

For lunch, we will dine at a riverside restaurant and savor a delicious Vietnamese 5-course set menu. Please let us know in advance if you have any food allergies, dietary restrictions, or Halal requirements.

After lunch, you can take a rest before boarding the motor-boat back to My Tho. We will then drive to Vinh Trang Pagoda, an ancient architectural gem with Southern Vietnamese influences that was built in the mid-19th century. The pagoda houses many Buddha statues, some of which are over a hundred years old.

Finally, we will drive for another 1.5 hours back to Ho Chi Minh City and drop you off at your hotel. You will spend the night at the hotel.

Today, we will depart from the city to explore the fascinating tunnel network of Cu Chi. This extensive system, spanning nearly 250 kilometers, served as a shelter for over 16,000 Vietcong guerrillas during the wars. Initially built in 1948 as protection against French air and ground operations, the tunnels later served as communication routes, storage facilities, hospitals, and living quarters for Vietnamese fighters during the American war. If you are interested and willing, you can even descend into the tunnels to learn more about the harsh conditions faced by the Vietcong guerrillas who lived there.

In the afternoon, we will embark on a tour of the former capital of French Indochina. The city is home to several historic landmarks, including the Old Saigon Post Office, Notre Dame Cathedral, and the Opera House. We will also visit the Reunification Palace, which served as the headquarters of the Saigon Government during the American war in the 1960s. After that, we will explore the ethnic Chinese district of Cholon.

Finally, we will transfer back to the hotel for an overnight stay.

You will have free time at your leisure until your driver arrives to take you to the airport for your flight to Danang.

Upon arrival at the airport in Danang, you will be welcomed by your local guide and transferred directly to your hotel in Hoian for check-in.

In the afternoon, we will start a walking trip around the charming port town of Hoian with our tour guide. In the 16th century, Hoian was a national trading center along the East-West commercial route, and it still retains its ancient charm with its diverse streets and homes. The cobblestone streets lined with Chinese, Japanese, French, and European influenced architecture are a delight to explore.

As we walk through the narrow lanes, you will see ancient houses that have stood for over two centuries. Some must-visit places in Hoi An include the 400-year-old Japanese Covered Bridge built by Japanese merchants, the Phuc Kien Assembly Halls, and the local fish market.

We will also make a stop at a lantern workshop, where you will have the opportunity to learn about this traditional handicraft that is a highlight of Hoi An.

Finally, we will transfer back to the hotel for an overnight stay.

At 8:30-8:45 AM, your local guide will pick you up from your hotel and transfer you to the local market in Hoian for your cooking class. Here, your guide will introduce you to different ingredients used in Vietnamese cuisine, explaining each one in detail.

Next, you will embark on a fishing life tour, where you will experience being a real fisherman on a boat on the river. You will have the opportunity to catch fish using local techniques, such as using a net, and learn about traditional fishing customs. The fish you catch will be fresh and add to the authenticity of your day.

You will also get to paddle unique Vietnamese bamboo basket boats while exploring the water coconut-palm area, which holds historical significance for the local community. You will have the chance to catch crabs and experience the life of a fisherman.

At 11:15 AM, you will be warmly welcomed at Tran Long Restaurant with a local greeting drink. You will then spend the next 2 hours becoming “family members” during your cooking class. The chef will demonstrate how to prepare traditional Vietnamese dishes, and then it will be your turn to try your hand at cooking.

The menu for the cooking class includes four courses of traditional Vietnamese dishes:

– Hoian Spring Rolls
– Banana Flower (Papaya) Salad with Pork and Shrimp
– Hoi An Rice Pancake (Banh Xeo)
– Fried Noodles with Seafood

In addition, there will be an extra dish of Steamed Clam with Lemongrass.

After the cooking class, you will enjoy the lunch that you have prepared yourself with the guidance of the chef. It will be a delicious and satisfying meal.

At 1:15 PM, you will be transferred back to your hotel

At 07:45-08:00 AM, you will be picked up from your hotel in Da Nang and transferred to Ba Na Hills. You will take the Cable Car, which has gained recognition with 5 world scores, to Ba Na Hills station. Along the way, you will stop at the By Night station to visit Vong Nguyet Hills, the Old Villas of French, and the famous Golden Bridge, known for its unique design.

Continuing your journey, you will move up by cable car to the Nui Chua Mountain, the top of the Ba Na range. Here, you will have the opportunity to visit Nginh Phong Top, Le Nim Villas, and Orchid Garden, where you can enjoy the breathtaking views of the surrounding scenery.

You will also experience a hill climbing train, which is the first and unique funicular in Vietnam, and visit an old French cellar known as Debay Ancient Wine Cellar. Additionally, you will have the chance to explore the beautiful flower garden called Le Jardin D’amour.

A buffet lunch will be served at the restaurant, allowing you to indulge in a delicious meal while enjoying the serene atmosphere of Ba Na Hills.

In the afternoon, you will have free time to join games at Fantasy Park, which is the third biggest indoor games zone in Vietnam. Here, you can enjoy a variety of interesting games such as 4-5D films, skiver, the death race, Dinosaur Park, and more for 2 hours. Alternatively, you can choose to explore Ba Na Hills on your own, taking in the scenic beauty at your leisure.

At 03:00 PM, you will head back to the cable car for your return journey, and then be transferred back to your hotel for overnight stay, concluding your day of adventure at Ba Na Hills.

Today is yours to enjoy at your leisure. You can choose to relax and unwind on the beautiful An Bang Beach, soaking in the warm sea and basking in the sun. An Bang Beach is known for its pristine white sand and clear turquoise waters, making it a perfect spot to relax and enjoy the natural beauty of the area.

Alternatively, you can take a stroll around the Ancient Village of Hoi An, a UNESCO World Heritage site. This charming and well-preserved historic town is known for its unique blend of Vietnamese, Chinese, Japanese, and French influences, reflected in its architecture, culture, and traditions. You can explore the narrow streets lined with colorful lanterns, visit the ancient temples, browse through the local markets, or simply immerse yourself in the rich history and cultural heritage of Hoi An.

For meals, you have the freedom to choose from the various dining options available in Hoi An. The town is famous for its delicious Vietnamese cuisine, with numerous local restaurants and street food stalls offering a wide range of mouthwatering dishes. From fresh seafood to flavorful noodle soups to savory rice pancakes, you can indulge in the local culinary delights and savor the authentic flavors of Vietnam.

After a day of relaxation or exploration, you will spend the night at your hotel in Hoi An

After your flight from Hoi An to Hanoi, you will be welcomed at the airport by your local guide who will transfer you to your hotel for check-in. Once settled in, you will have some free time to relax and prepare for your evening food tour.

At around 4:00 PM, get ready for an exciting walking street food tour in the Old Quarter of Hanoi, known for its bustling streets and vibrant food scene. Your local guide will take you through the maze of streets, and as you walk, you will have the opportunity to try various seasonal fruits and tasty French-inspired snacks from street carts.

You will then visit a local eatery to sample some of the famed Hanoi dishes, such as Bun Cha Ta, a delicious grilled pork and noodle dish, and Banh Cuon, a Vietnamese steamed rice roll. Here, you can watch as the skilled chefs demonstrate how these tasty dishes are prepared.

Next, you will visit outdoor BBQ stalls, where you can sit down with the locals and sample various meat, vegetable, and bread specialties that are flame-grilled over hot coals for extra flavor. It’s a chance to immerse yourself in the local food culture and try some unique flavors.

As dessert time approaches, your local guide will take you to one of Hanoi’s best-kept secrets – Banh My Hanoi, a hidden street food restaurant where you can taste some of the top street foods in Hanoi, including Vietnamese Rice Wine and the famous Egg Coffee. This hard-to-find café is located in the narrow streets inside the old quarter of Hanoi, offering a truly authentic experience.

After a delicious and fulfilling food tour, you will be taken back to your hotel for overnight stay.

After breakfast at your hotel in Hanoi, you will be transferred to Ha Long Bay, one of the most famous natural wonders in Vietnam. On the way, you will have the opportunity to see the rural areas of the Red River Delta and capture some photos of Vietnamese farmers working in paddy fields, providing a glimpse into the local way of life.

You will make a stop halfway to visit a handicraft workshop where you can see fine clothes and embroidered paintings being made by skilled artisans. It’s a chance to learn about the local craftsmanship and take home some unique souvenirs.

Upon arriving in Ha Long City at around 11:30 AM, you will check in aboard the booked junk, a traditional Vietnamese boat, and be served a welcome drink. You will then start cruising through Ha Long Bay while enjoying a delicious lunch on board, with stunning views of the majestic bay.

Ha Long Bay, also known as Descending Dragon Bay in Vietnamese folklore, is renowned for its natural beauty and is recognized as a UNESCO World Heritage site. The bay is home to around 2,000 karst islands and islets, which were formed over 500 million years ago, creating a breathtaking landscape.

You will have time to relax and take in the bay’s scenic views as the sun sets, creating a magical atmosphere. Afterward, you will enjoy a delicious dinner on board, followed by an opportunity to go fishing at 9:00 PM, experiencing a unique local activity.

You will spend the night on the junk, drifting on the tranquil waters of Ha Long Bay, surrounded by the stunning karst formations and enjoying the peacefulness of this natural wonder.

In the morning, you will have the opportunity to refresh your body and mind with a Tai Chi exercise on the sundeck of the junk, enjoying the peacefulness and serenity of Ha Long Bay at the break of dawn. Afterward, you can savor some tea and coffee onboard as you continue to explore the beauty of Ha Long Bay, sailing among its 2,000 islets and visiting some of its major highlights.

You will have the chance to witness the awe-inspiring natural beauty of the bay, with its limestone karst formations, emerald waters, and picturesque landscapes. Your knowledgeable guide will share interesting information about the geology, history, and legends associated with Ha Long Bay, enhancing your experience.

After the morning exploration, you will check out of the junk at around 9:30 AM and enjoy a buffet brunch while cruising back to the shore. It’s a perfect time to indulge in some delicious Vietnamese and international cuisines while taking in the stunning views of the bay.

Upon disembarking at 11:00 AM, you will be transferred back to Hanoi, where you can relax and reminisce about the unforgettable memories you have created in Ha Long Bay during the journey back to the city.

Arriving back in Hanoi, you will have the evening at leisure to explore more of the city, indulge in some shopping, or simply relax at your hotel. Overnight stay will be at your hotel in Hanoi.

As your tour comes to an end, you will have some free time to relax and enjoy your last moments in Hanoi until it’s time for your departure flight. Your hotel room will be at your disposal until noon, allowing you to freshen up and pack your belongings.

You can take this time to explore more of Hanoi, visit any last-minute sights, or indulge in some shopping for souvenirs to take back home. There are plenty of options for dining in Hanoi, from local street food stalls to upscale restaurants, where you can savor the flavors of Vietnamese cuisine one last time.

When it’s time for your departure, you will be transferred to the airport for your onward flight. Your tour concludes here, and you can depart with wonderful memories of your journey through Vietnam, from the bustling cities to the natural wonders of Ha Long Bay and the cultural heritage of Hoi An.