Exploring Vietnam Highlight Destination 10 Days

Embark on an unforgettable adventure as we set sail on a majestic junk boat, cruising through the legendary Ha Long Bay. This mesmerizing bay boasts thousands of islands adorned with intricate cave systems, rising dramatically from the turquoise waters. Prepare to be enchanted by the natural wonders that surround us. As we glide through the bay, be captivated by the towering limestone karst mountains that pierce the sky, creating a breathtaking landscape that will remain etched in your memory. Our voyage includes stops at various islands and caves, such as the enchanting Wooden Grotto (Hang Đầu Gỗ), the ethereal Heaven Cave (Động Thiên Cung), or the awe-inspiring Surprising Cave (Hang Sửng Sốt). Indulge in a delectable seafood lunch and dinner, savoring the fresh flavors of the ocean. Delight in an array of dishes that showcase the region's culinary delights, leaving your taste buds yearning for more. In the evening, you have the option to relax on deck, enjoying a refreshing drink under the twinkling stars, creating a truly magical ambiance. Retreat to your cozy cabin on board the luxurious junk boat, drifting off to sleep amidst the gentle sway of the sea. Allow the tranquility of the bay to envelop you, preparing you for the wonders that await on the following day.

Bid farewell to the captivating beauty of Ha Long Bay as we embark on our return journey. After a delightful breakfast on board the cruise, we gracefully sail back to the port. From there, we will be transferred to Hanoi in a private van, allowing us some additional time to relish the charms of this vibrant city. Take advantage of this opportunity to explore more of Hanoi, whether it's strolling through the bustling streets, savoring local delicacies, or immersing yourself in the city's rich history and culture. Indulge in the vibrant atmosphere and uncover hidden gems that await your discovery. Later in the evening, we will board an overnight train that will transport us to the enchanting city of Hue. Rest comfortably in the sleeper cabins, allowing the rhythmic motion of the train to lull you into a peaceful slumber, as anticipation for the upcoming adventures in Hue fills your dreams.

Welcome to Hue, the majestic former capital of Vietnam. Our day begins with a mesmerizing exploration of the city's cultural gems, including the renowned Imperial Citadel, enchanting Royal Tombs, and the iconic Thien Mu Pagoda. Immerse yourself in the rich history and architectural grandeur that Hue has to offer. We start with a visit to the Thien Mu Pagoda, a majestic seven-story pagoda that stands tall and elegant, commanding breathtaking views of its surroundings. As you wander through this historic temple, which dates back over 400 years, you'll be transported back in time. It holds a significant place in Vietnamese history, having been a site of political protests and spiritual reverence. Next, we venture into the UNESCO World Heritage site of the Imperial Citadel. This fortified complex once served as the seat of power and residence of emperors. Explore its magnificent palaces, gateways, courtyards, and gardens, marveling at the intricate architecture that showcases the grandeur of the bygone era. Take a glimpse into the past as you step into the Forbidden Purple City, a fascinating enclave within the citadel that was once the private domain of the imperial family and suffered significant damage during the Vietnam War. Our journey continues along the Perfume River, where we visit the Royal Tombs, serene resting places of the former rulers of Vietnam. These ornate tombs, carefully designed according to the principles of Feng Shui, offer a glimpse into the lives and legacies of the emperors. Admire the intricate details, beautiful gardens, and peaceful ambiance that surround these majestic final resting sites. For lunch, indulge in a unique dining experience at a local nunnery, where you can savor a delicious vegetarian meal prepared with love and mindfulness. In the afternoon, if you're up for an adventure, seize the opportunity to embark on an optional countryside motorbike tour. Hop on the back of a motorbike and let a skilled driver guide you through picturesque rice paddy landscapes. Witness the daily lives of local villagers as they work in the fields, and discover hidden temples, charming shops, scenic viewpoints, and even ancient covered bridges. Each motorbike tour offers a unique and captivating experience, showcasing the beauty of Hue's countryside. As the day comes to a close, treat your taste buds to some local Hue specialties, such as banh khoai (Hue savory pancakes) and banh bot loc boc tom thit (thin rice paper filled with meat and shrimp). Pair these delectable dishes with a refreshing Hue beer, immersing yourself in the local culinary delights. Relish the memories of this culturally enriching day in Hue, as we prepare for the next chapter of our remarkable journey.

Prepare for a day filled with breathtaking landscapes and delightful discoveries as we embark on a journey from Hue to Hoi An. Our adventure begins with a visit to the magnificent ruins of the Imperial Citadel, where remnants of the once-glorious empire still stand as a testament to its majestic past. Immerse yourself in the history and architectural splendor of this remarkable site. As we bid farewell to Hue in the late morning, we embark on a picturesque drive towards Hoi An, traversing the legendary Hai Van Pass (subject to weather conditions). Brace yourself for awe-inspiring views in every direction as we ascend this mountainous route, offering panoramic vistas that will leave you breathless. Arriving in Hoi An in the afternoon, you will have ample time to immerse yourself in the charm and tranquility of this enchanting town. With a plethora of options available, you can tailor your experience to suit your preferences. Indulge in a cooking class and unlock the secrets of Vietnamese cuisine, take a serene riverboat trip to admire the idyllic scenery, embark on a leisurely bike ride to explore the surrounding countryside, bask in the sun-kissed beaches, visit talented tailors to create your personalized garments, or venture to the captivating My Son Holy Land to delve into its ancient mysteries. Take advantage of the free time in Hoi An to truly immerse yourself in the magic of this quaint town. Wander through the captivating streets adorned with lanterns, discover hidden gems at every corner, and relish the serene ambiance that permeates the air. Whether you choose to explore its rich history, engage in cultural activities, or simply relax and savor the unique atmosphere, Hoi An promises an unforgettable experience. Embrace the freedom to explore Hoi An at your own pace, savoring every moment in this picturesque and culturally rich destination.

Prepare to be captivated by the wonders of Hoi An as we embark on two full days dedicated to exploring the treasures this ancient city has to offer. Immerse yourself in the rich culture, relax on pristine beaches, or indulge in the art of tailoring, available in the multitude of shops that adorn the streets. As you venture through Hoi An, an array of enticing activities awaits your discovery. Take the opportunity to participate in a captivating cooking class, where you will unravel the secrets of Vietnamese cuisine. Accompanied by a knowledgeable guide, venture into the local market, where the vibrant colors and aromas of fresh ingredients will awaken your senses. Select the finest produce and spices before returning to the cooking school to prepare popular regional dishes. Delight in the flavors and textures of your culinary creations, savoring the authentic taste of Vietnam. For those seeking a leisurely exploration, rent a bicycle from one of the local shops and embark on a delightful adventure through the enchanting streets of Hoi An. Discover hidden corners, admire the architectural marvels, and soak in the tranquil atmosphere that pervades the city. Alternatively, embark on an excursion to the mesmerizing Mỹ Sơn, located approximately one hour away from Hoi An. Explore the fascinating Hindu temple complex, which dates back to the fourth to 14th centuries. Marvel at the intricate architectural style and learn about the historical significance of this site, often compared to the magnificent Angkor Wat in Cambodia and the remarkable Bagan in Burma. If you desire a meaningful and illuminating experience, visit the Lifestart Foundation, a project supported by G Adventures, where you can engage in lantern making alongside local residents. Discover the traditional techniques behind the creation of these vibrant lanterns and gain insight into how this initiative provides sustainable employment opportunities for individuals with chronic disabilities. Add a touch of light to your life and support a worthy cause. No visit to Hoi An would be complete without exploring its renowned tailor shops. Wander along the charming streets adorned with an abundance of local establishments that specialize in creating exquisite handmade clothing. From elegant suits and dresses to cozy winter coats, shoes, and accessories, you can have your bespoke wardrobe tailored in a day's time. Immerse yourself in the bustling atmosphere of the tailor shops, and leave with personalized garments that perfectly reflect your style. With ample free time in Hoi An, the choice is yours to create the perfect experience. Whether you choose to delve into the local culture, soak up the sun on the pristine beaches, or engage in the vibrant art of tailoring, Hoi An promises to be a haven of unforgettable moments and cherished memories.

Embrace a day of unlimited exploration as you delve deeper into the captivating allure of Hoi An. With a full day of free time at your disposal, allow yourself to be enchanted by the harmonious ambiance that permeates this historic town. Embark on a journey of personal discovery as you wander through the quaint streets adorned with vibrant lanterns, marvel at the well-preserved architectural wonders, and immerse yourself in the rich cultural heritage that surrounds you. Unleash your senses as you meander through the bustling markets, where a myriad of colors, aromas, and flavors intertwine to create an unforgettable sensory experience. Discover hidden treasures in the local shops, peruse the exquisite handicrafts, and indulge in the delectable local cuisine that tantalizes your taste buds. Whether you choose to immerse yourself in the local traditions, embark on a leisurely stroll along the sun-kissed beaches, or simply relax and savor the tranquility that Hoi An exudes, this day is yours to curate a truly unforgettable experience.

Bid farewell to the captivating charms of Hoi An as we embark on a journey to Ho Chi Minh City, the bustling commercial hub of Vietnam. Your guide will accompany you to Da Nang Airport, where you will board a short flight to Ho Chi Minh City. Arriving in the dynamic and vibrant city that was once the capital of South Vietnam, be prepared to immerse yourself in the hustle and bustle of its busy streets and alleys. As you navigate through the maze of this bustling metropolis, keep an eye out for the exquisite laquerware shops, where intricate craftsmanship adorns the shelves, and succumb to the enticing aromas wafting from the local food stalls. Sit back, relax, and enjoy a one-hour flight to Ho Chi Minh City, allowing yourself to unwind and reflect upon the remarkable experiences you have encountered thus far. As you soar through the sky, anticipation builds for the adventures that await you in this vibrant city. (Note: If you have any specific activities or preferences in Ho Chi Minh City, please let your guide know in order to tailor your experience accordingly.)

Embark on a captivating guided tour of the Cu Chi Tunnels, delving deep into the tumultuous history of the Vietnam War. Gain invaluable insights into the ingenious tactics employed by the Viet Cong as they sought refuge within this intricate network of tunnels. For the adventurous, crawl through a section of the tunnels and experience firsthand the conditions endured by the brave soldiers who fought during this conflict. Marvel at the underground hospitals, hidden ammunition stores, and strategic command centers that served as a lifeline for the resistance forces. In the afternoon, immerse yourself in the sprawling metropolis of Ho Chi Minh City, where endless possibilities await. With free time at your disposal, venture to the revered Thien Hau and Giac Vien pagodas, witnessing the devotion and customs associated with these sacred sites. Lose yourself in the vibrant tapestry of the Ben Thanh Market, where the vibrant energy of local life intertwines with enticing aromas and an array of local wares. Delve into the city's history with a visit to the iconic Reunification Palace, bearing witness to the symbolic moment when the North Vietnamese tank breached its gates, marking the end of the war. For a deeper understanding of the city's cultural fabric, explore Cholon, the dynamic Chinese quarter of Ho Chi Minh City, where teahouses, pagodas, and bustling streets tell stories of tradition and resilience. Alternatively, pay a visit to the War Remnants Museum, an emotional journey through exhibits and military artifacts that shed light on the devastating impact of the Vietnam War. With so much to discover and experience, the vibrant streets of Ho Chi Minh City beckon, offering a captivating blend of history, culture, and vitality. (Note: Your tour guide will be available to provide recommendations and assistance in creating your personalized exploration of Ho Chi Minh City.)

As your unforgettable journey comes to a close, it's time to bid farewell to the enchanting city of Ho Chi Minh. Check out from your hotel by 12 AM, and our dedicated driver will whisk you away to Tan Son Nhat International Airport for your departure. Reflect on the incredible experiences, cultural encounters, and treasured memories you have gathered throughout your time in Vietnam. We sincerely hope that this adventure has left an indelible imprint on your heart, and we look forward to welcoming you back in the future for more remarkable explorations. Until then, safe travels and may your journey home be filled with joy and anticipation for your next great adventure. Tour End.