Overview
Discover the rich culture and breathtaking natural beauty of Vietnam on a 10-day tailor-made tour. Immerse yourself in the stunning scenery of Halong Bay, explore the fascinating cultural heritage sites, savor the unique flavors of Hanoi’s Old Quarter, and experience authentic local life in rural Vietnam. With the freedom to explore at your own pace, you can fully appreciate the diversity of Vietnam and create unforgettable memories.
Highlights
- Indulge in a deluxe Halong Bay cruise while taking in the breathtaking natural surroundings.
- Immerse yourself in the colonial elegance and mouth-watering cuisine of Hanoi's Old Quarter.
- Marvel at the intriguing culture and old-world charm of Hoi An ancient town.
- Delve into the local culture and picturesque landscapes of the serene Mekong Delta.
Itinerary
Upon your arrival at Hanoi airport, you will receive a warm welcome and then be transferred to your hotel in the heart of the city. After checking in, you can enjoy a refreshing welcome drink and take some time to relax.
The remainder of the day is free for you to do as you please. You may choose to stay at the hotel and unwind, or take a short walk through the city’s narrow streets and try some delicious local cuisine. Meals on your own. You will spend the night at the hotel.
Embark on an impressive journey to Halong Bay, also known as the jewel of North Vietnam due to its thousands of dramatic limestone islands scattered around the bay. Travel through the peaceful scenery of rice fields as you pass through the countryside and lush land of Red River Delta.
Around noon, arrive at the pier and board the luxurious cruise, where you will be welcomed with a drink and a cruise briefing by the crew and captain. After settling into your cabin, enjoy a delicious lunch as the ship starts to sail through the bay, passing by jungle-clad mountains and mysterious caves.
There will be plenty of time to climb up to the top for a panoramic view of the bay or kayak around the limestone karsts. Return to the ship for a cruise to the anchorage spot in a quiet area.
In the evening, enjoy a fresh cocktail on the sundeck while admiring the awe-inspiring scenery before indulging in a dinner of delicious Vietnamese cuisine with your fellow passengers. After dinner, participate in a range of onboard activities such as playing games, fishing for squid, or watching movies. Spend the night on the cruise.
Start your day with a calming Tai Chi session on the cruise to revitalize your mind and body in the serene atmosphere. Savor a delicious breakfast while admiring the breathtaking views of limestone karsts and caves.
After breakfast, get ready to check out of your cabin. As the cruise sails back to the harbor, enjoy the stunning scenery or relax on board.
A brunch will be served on the way back. When you arrive at the harbor, a shuttle bus will take you back to Hanoi. You will arrive in Hanoi at approximately 5:00 PM. Dinner is not included. Spend the night at the hotel.
Experience the rich culture, architecture, and tradition of Hanoi’s Old Quarter with an enticing walking tour. Our guide will pick you up from your hotel at 6:00 PM and take you on a journey to discover the mouth-watering local foods of Hanoi. Walking along the narrow streets and alleys, you will be fascinated by the bustling local scenes on the streets teeming with spectacular architectural buildings.
Try a special dish of “Bánh Cuốn” (steamed rice rolls) at a popular local restaurant and taste the traditional delicacy of “Chè” (sweet gruel) before making your way to a local market to delve into the vibrant atmosphere and lifestyle of the locals.
Please note that the rotating menu from day-to-day is subject to change.
After the three-hour walking tour, head back to your hotel to check out as our driver and tour guide take you to Hanoi train station for an overnight train to Danang.
The train departs from Hanoi at 10:20 PM and arrives in Danang at 01:26 PM the next day. You will have one soft berth in a sharing cabin for the overnight train.
Upon your arrival at Da Nang train station at 01:26pm, our driver and tour guide will be there to welcome you and transfer you to your hotel in Hoi An. You will have the rest of the day free at your leisure. Meals will be on your own, and you will stay overnight at the hotel.
You will be picked up from your Hoian hotel at 8:00am by our guide and driver for a day trip to My Son Holy Land. The journey will be a scenic one, offering picturesque views of Hoi An’s rivers, mountains, and beautiful islands.
Eventually, we will arrive at My Son, which has been recognized as a UNESCO World Heritage Site. This ancient architectural complex dates back to the 4th to 15th century and is considered one of the most stunning and famous temple complexes in Southeast Asia. Our guide will provide you with the historical significance of this religious site during the tour.
After exploring My Son, we will return to Hoi An at mid-noon to enjoy a romantic boat ride on Thu Bon River. Following the boat ride, we will take you to a local restaurant for lunch before heading back to your hotel to relax. Dinner is at your leisure, and you will spend the night at the hotel.
OPTION 1: Free Day
Today is a day off for you to discover the ancient town on your own. You can choose to walk along the old streets to discover its fascinating history, culture, and local vibe. Alternatively, you can ride a bike to travel around the town and make stops on the way to visit the ancient temples and pagodas, purchase a handmade lantern, or enjoy a cup of coffee by the Thu Bon riverside. Don’t forget the amazing beaches in Hoi An as well Meals on your own, and you will stay overnight at the hotel.
OPTION 2: Group tour to Ba Na Hill & Golden Bridge (Lunch included)
Supplement: plus about 68$/person
You will be picked up at the lobby between 7:30-7:45 AM for a transfer to Ba Na Hills. You will then take the Cable Car, which has been awarded 5 world scores, to reach Ba Na Hills station. You will stop at By Night station to visit Vong Nguyet hills, Linh Ung pagoda, The Old Villas of French, and the Golden bridge. You will then continue to Nui Chua Mountain – the top of Ba Na range – by cable car, where you will visit Nginh Phong top, Le Nim Villas, and Orchid Garden. You will also experience hill climbing train (the first and only funicular in Vietnam) and visit an old French cellar – Debay Ancient Wine Cellar – as well as the flower garden Le Jardin D’amour.
You will enjoy a buffet lunch at the restaurant, and in the afternoon, you will be free to participate in games in Fantasy Park – the third-largest indoor games zone in Vietnam – with various interesting games, such as 4-5D films, skiver, The death race, and dinosaur park for two hours. Alternatively, you can discover Ba Na Hills on your own.
Around 3:00 PM, you will return to the Cable Car for your departure from Ba Na Hills. Our minivan will bring you back to your hotel in Hoi An by 5:30 PM. Dinner will be on your own, and you will spend the night at the hotel.
Spend your final day in Hoi An at your own leisure, taking in the town’s charm and beauty. You can take a stroll around the town, visit ancient houses and marvel at the fascinating architecture while capturing memorable photos. You have free time until it’s time to transfer to the Danang airport for your flight to Ho Chi Minh City.
Upon arriving at Ho Chi Minh airport, our driver will be waiting to greet you and transfer you to your hotel in Ho Chi Minh City for check-in.
Meet your guide and driver at your hotel around 8:00 am to start your journey to the picturesque Mekong Delta, which is known for its abundance of rice, tropical fruits, and flowers. This area is commonly referred to as the “Rice Bowl” of Vietnam. During the excursion, you will have the opportunity to gain insight into the unique culture and nature of the region.
Next, head to Cai Be, a vibrant land famous for its lively floating markets and waterways. Upon arrival, board a rowing boat for a scenic trip to a local orchard, where you can witness the handicraft village activities. Afterward, enjoy a delicious lunch at the fruit garden before continuing your boat ride along the majestic Mekong River to Vinh Long, a lush area known for its tropical fruits. Finally, return to Ho Chi Minh City for the evening. Dinner will be on your own, and you will spend the night at the hotel.
Spend your final day in Ho Chi Minh City enjoying any activities that interest you until it is time to transfer to the airport for your onward flight. You may continue to use your hotel room until noon. Meals on your own. This marks the end of our services.
Inclusions & Exclusions
Inclusions
- Double/twin accommodation with breakfast included
- Transportation and tours specified in the itinerary by air-conditioned vehicle
- Boat trips mentioned in the itinerary
- Late check-out until 6 PM on day 4
- Local guides who speak English
- A soft berth in a shared 4-berth cabin for the overnight train from Hanoi to Danang
- Meals as indicated (B: breakfast; L: lunch; D: dinner)
- Entrance fees
- Domestic flight
Exclusions
- International flight ticket
- Vietnam visa fee of 30 USD per person
- Single supplement surcharge (for those who prefer a single room instead of sharing a twin/double room)
- Drinks (excluding water) on activity days
- Personal expenses such as laundry, telephone, drinks, and tips
- Travel insurance