Highlights of Vietnam – 11 Days

Embark on a comprehensive exploration of Hanoi with a full-day sightseeing tour. Commence your journey at the Ho Chi Minh Complex, the final resting place of Ho Chi Minh, revered as the father of modern Vietnam. Uncover the Ho Chi Minh Mausoleum, the distinctive One Pillar Pagoda, the Presidential Palace, and the unique Stilt House. Your next destination is the Temple of Literature, built in 1070 to pay homage to Confucius and serving as Vietnam's inaugural university. Continue your cultural journey at the Vietnam Museum of Ethnology, offering insights into the lifestyles and traditions of the nation's 54 recognized ethnic groups. Conclude the day with a visit to Hoan Kiem Lake and the island-bound Ngoc Son Temple.

Embark on a journey to the renowned Ha Long Bay via a cruise. Indulge in a traditional lunch onboard as you navigate through the picturesque canals. The initial destination in Halong Bay is the Sung Sot Cave. Return to the vessel to partake in the sunset happy hour and delve into the secrets of Vietnamese cuisine with a live cooking demonstration. Dinner will be served onboard, providing an opportunity to unwind on the upper deck, try your luck at squid fishing, or enjoy an Indochina movie before retiring for the night. Please be aware that cruise itineraries and schedules are subject to change without prior notice based on weather conditions and operational considerations.

Begin your day in Ha Long Bay with an invigorating Tai Chi session on the sundeck. Following breakfast, embark on a bamboo boat with a local guide to explore Luon Cave. Relish a delightful lunch and explore the lush Cat Ba Island before heading back to Hanoi for a flight to Hue.

Hue, once the hub of politics, culture, and religion in unified Vietnam until 1945, is characterized by the iconic 80 km-long Perfume River meandering through the city center. Embarking on a cruise along this picturesque river provides a splendid view of the city's key landmarks, including the renowned Thien Mu Pagoda, the Imperial Citadel, and Emperor Tu Duc's Royal Mausoleum. The remainder of the day is yours to freely explore Dong Ba Market.

Embark on a coach journey, tracing the picturesque coastal route from Hue to Hoi An. Pause along the way to admire the breathtaking Marble Mountains adorned with distinctive pagodas crowning each peak. Upon reaching Hoi An, indulge in an afternoon of exploration in this charming coastal city at your own pace.

Explore the historic town of Hoi An, adorned with numerous ancient sites. Discover the Japanese Covered Bridge Pagoda and wander through the charming city lanes. Dive into the history of the innovative Sa Huynh civilization at the Sa Huynh Culture Museum. Pay a visit to the Tran Family ancestral worship chapel and witness the art of lantern-making. Explore the Phuoc Kien Assembly Hall, dedicated to the Goddess of the Sea. Utilize the afternoon for a leisurely exploration of the town.

Utilize your free time to explore the beach or take a final stroll through Hoi An before heading to Da Nang Airport. Catch a flight to Can Tho, situated in the Mekong Delta with its extensive canal systems and floating markets. In the afternoon, take advantage of your free time to tour the renowned Binh Thuy Ancient House, a century-old residence with captivating architectural features.

Embark on a boat journey from the Ninh Kieu boat station, navigating through the bustling waterways of Can Tho to reach the vibrant Cai Rang floating market. Immerse yourself in the lively atmosphere, perfect for souvenir shopping and capturing memorable photographs. Continue your exploration with a visit to the bustling An Binh indoor market, followed by a stroll along the Rau Ram canal and a tour of a rice noodle workshop. Experience the agricultural techniques at a Ba Cong tropical fruit garden, guided by a local family. Finally, proceed to Ho Chi Minh City/Saigon, where you'll spend the night.

Explore the impactful history of the Vietnam/American War with a visit to the Cu Chi Tunnels, a significant site that served as a refuge for guerrilla fighters during the conflict. Delve into the vibrant streets of Ho Chi Minh City/Saigon, taking in iconic landmarks such as the Notre Dame Cathedral, the historic Post Office, and the Presidential Palace. Roam through the lively atmosphere of Ben Thanh Market, seizing the opportunity to find unique souvenirs as the sun sets.

As your Vietnamese journey concludes, take this opportunity to connect with your fellow travelers, exchanging contact details and cherishing the camaraderie forged during the trip. Make the most of your final day in Ho Chi Minh City/Saigon before your departure back home.