7 Days South to Central of Vietnam

Tour Code: FGFZGPOV96YK 

5 (121 Reviews)
Ho Chi Minh City, Cai Be, Da Nang, Hoi An
From: €363 4-star hotels
5
(121 reviews)
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Duration

7 Days

Tour Type

Daily Tour

Group Size

Unlimited

Languages

English

About this tour

Ho Chi Minh City, Cai Be, Da Nang, Hoi An

Commence and conclude your journey in Ho Chi Minh City! Experience the 7 Days South to Central of Vietnam, a 7-day tour that will guide you through Ho Chi Minh City and three additional destinations in Vietnam. This inclusive package provides accommodation in a hotel, flights, the expertise of a knowledgeable guide, meals, transportation, and more.

Included/Excluded

  • * Throughout the tour, guests will be accommodated exclusively in 4- and 5-star hotels.
  • * Accommodation based on twin or double sharing room
  • * All transfers and road transport in modern, air-conditioned vehicles if specified in the program
  • * Meals as mentioned in the program. B-Breakfast, Br-Brunch, L-Lunch, D-Dinner
  • * Your tour guide is a professional, fully trained employee of VTP Travel
  • * Entrance fees if specified in the program
  • * Airfares, Cruise, Train, Sleeper bus if specified in the program.
  • * Compulsory tips for tour guide and driver
  • * Meals not mentioned in the program
  • * Single Supplement. Early check-in and late check-out. Hotel/Room upgrade
  • * Drinks, personal expenses and any services not clearly mentioned in the program
  • * Surcharge for the festive seasons
  • * Applicable Government Taxes and other service charges.
  • * The tour cost does not include POE charges and passport charges.
  • * Porterage Facility

Hotel List:
To view the list and detailed information about the hotels used in the tour

Itinerary

<span> Day 1</span> Ho Chi Minh City - Arrival

Airport pickup service is provided, followed by a transfer to your selected hotel. Spend the night in Ho Chi Minh City.

<span> Day 2</span> Mekong Delta - Cai Be floating market - Food Tour by Motorbike

Proceed to Tan Son Nhat International Airport for your flight to Hoi An. Once you arrive at Da Nang airport, you will be picked up and transferred to your hotel. Check in, unwind, and enjoy an overnight stay in Hoi An.

<span> Day 3</span> Ho Chi Minh City - Da Nang - Hoi An

Explore Hoi An's rural landscapes and savor its local delicacies on a bicycle journey. The local cuisines of Hoi An hold a special place in the hearts of tourists who visit this charming town. These dishes are not only popular but also represent unique cultural symbols that captivate every visitor. Our cycling adventure takes us to a local eatery to savor a Hoi An specialty – Cao Lau. This traditional dish features local noodles, pork, fresh vegetables, and rice paper. The noodles are crafted from sticky rice, soaked in water sourced from Ba Le Well – the oldest well in Hoi An, known for its exceptional water quality. Pedaling through the scenic countryside, we'll reach Tra Que Village, renowned for its vegetables supplied to many local restaurants, including those preparing the delectable Cao Lau. Here, you'll have the opportunity to learn the art of making "white rose" dumpling cakes with a local family and taste your culinary creations. Our journey continues to Cam Nam, where you can indulge in the Yin and Yang food experience, including Banh Dap (cracked or smashed rice pancake) and Che Bap (corn and coconut sweet soup). Conclude the day with an overnight stay in Hoi An.

<span> Day 4</span> Hoi An Foodie tour in the morning

Discover the lively Cai Be Floating Market, a bustling marketplace for the trade of agricultural goods. Explore a local residence to witness the traditional crafting of coconut candy, rice paper, rice-popcorn, and rice wine. Depart for Tan Phong Islet, where a rowing boat will navigate you through shaded creeks, offering opportunities to enjoy traditional music and tropical fruits. A delightful lunch, featuring the renowned 'Elephant-Ear Fish,' awaits you at a local house.

As the sun sets, embark on a culinary adventure through the dynamic streets of Vietnam. Accompanied by our seasoned guide and drivers, experience the thrill of riding pillion on a scooter through the vibrant Vietnamese traffic. Dive into iconic street delicacies like "Banh Trang Tron" - Vietnamese Rice Paper Salad, "Bo Bia" - Vietnamese Spring Rolls, and "Banh Xeo" - Crispy Vietnamese Pancake. Delight your palate with "Trung Vit Lon" - Half-hatched Duck Eggs, "Oc" - Steamed and Roasted Shell and Snail, accompanied by local beer. Wrap up the day with an overnight stay in Ho Chi Minh City.

<span> Day 5</span> Marble Mountains & Linh Ung Pagoda in the morning

The Marble Mountains (Ngu Hanh Son in Vietnamese, meaning "five elements mountains") stands out as a captivating attraction in Da Nang due to its enchanting beauty. Ascend the stone steps carved into the mountain, leading to a Buddhist Pagoda, and experience a series of invigorating exercises with numerous steps offering a stunning view from the mountain's summit. Explore the nearby stone village, where skilled local artisans craft a variety of marble products. Continue to Am Phu Cave, housing a replica depicting "Heaven and Hell" and featuring eerie underground tunnels where the sound of bats' wings adds to the mystical ambiance.

Before returning to the hotel, visit Son Tra Linh Ung Pagoda. Constructed during the reign of King Minh Mang in the 19th century Nguyen Dynasty, the pagoda's origin is linked to a Buddhist statue that floated downstream and anchored at a sandy embankment. Local villagers, interpreting it as an auspicious sign, erected a small pagoda to honor the statue. According to local legend, since then, the entire coastal region has enjoyed favorable weather, avoiding severe storms and rough sea waves, with local fishermen enjoying abundant catches.

The afternoon is yours to explore at your leisure. Overnight in Hoi An.

<span> Day 6</span> Hoi An - Home Cooking Class - Ho Chi Minh City

Immerse yourself in the art of Vietnamese cuisine with our unique and interactive cooking class led by local experts. Begin at a charming coffee shop in the market area, where you'll gain some basic Vietnamese phrases for navigating Hoi An Central Market during your personalized shopping experience. Explore the vibrant market, taking in the sights, sounds, and enticing aromas that define this culinary hub. Engage with local merchants to select the freshest and most vibrant ingredients for your upcoming cooking lesson, recognizing that the key to delicious and fragrant dishes lies in the quality of the ingredients.

Embark on a delightful boat journey from the market to a local house, enjoying picturesque views of the ancient town along the way. Here, passionate locals will guide you through the preparation of each dish, providing hands-on assistance as you create your own culinary masterpiece. Following the cooking session, savor the flavors of your creations. This experience aims to deepen your understanding of Vietnamese cuisine, offering insights into both its diversity and the distinctive flavors of Hoi An. As a bonus, you'll receive an e-recipe after the class, allowing you to practice and recreate these dishes at home.

In the afternoon, transfer to Da Nang International Airport for your flight to Ho Chi Minh City. Upon arrival at Tan Son Nhat Airport, you'll be greeted and transferred to your hotel for check-in and relaxation. Overnight in Ho Chi Minh City.

<span> Day 7</span> Ho Chi Minh City - Departure

Unwind until it's time for your transfer to Tan Son Nhat International Airport for your departing flight.

Durations

5 - 8 days

Languages

English

Regional Tours

Vietnam

For more information or to book this tour, please click the request button below:



Tour's Location

Ho Chi Minh City, Cai Be, Da Nang, Hoi An
The Legend of Hanoi’s West Lake - 🐉 The Legend of Hanoi’s West Lake – Between Myth, History, and Timeless Beauty📍 Location: Northwest Hanoi | Free Entry | Open 24/7 🌅 Introduction: Where Myth Meets Modern Hanoi Few places in Hanoi capture the city’s poetic soul quite like West Lake (Hồ Tây). The vast, shimmering expanse of water — stretching over 500 hectares — has been a silent witness to Hanoi’s long and layered history. It’s a place where ancient legends blend effortlessly with modern life, where monks, kings, and mythical creatures once roamed, and where today’s travelers can enjoy lakeside cafés, sunsets, and the calm rhythm of local life. But before the luxury hotels, the trendy restaurants, and the scenic cycling routes, there was a story — a legend that explains how this lake came to be. And it’s one of Vietnam’s most enchanting folktales: The Legend of the Golden Buffalo and the Birth of West Lake. 🛕 The Ancient Tale: How the Golden Buffalo Created West Lake Long ago, when the world was still wrapped in mist and myth, a virtuous monk journeyed to China to heal the emperor’s mysterious illness. Out of gratitude, the emperor rewarded him with a generous gift of bronze. The monk, humble and devoted, donated most of the bronze to the state upon returning to Vietnam. Yet with the small portion he kept, he crafted a magnificent bronze bell — a bell so pure and resonant that its sound rolled across mountains and rivers, echoing far beyond human lands. 🐮 Far away in the imperial treasury of China, there lived a golden buffalo calf. Hearing the divine sound of the bell, the calf mistook it for its mother’s call and began charging south toward the origin of the sound. It ran tirelessly across valleys and plains until it reached Hanoi. But when the bell stopped ringing, the confused calf spun in circles, digging deep into the earth in its frantic search. The ground caved in, forming a massive hollow — which soon filled with water and became West Lake (Hồ Tây). According to legend, the golden buffalo still lies deep beneath the lake’s waters. It’s said that only a man aided by his ten natural sons can one day retrieve it — a symbol of purity, family unity, and divine destiny. 🌊 Between Myth and Reality: The Geographical Story While the legend paints a magical picture, geologists and historians offer a more down-to-earth explanation. West Lake was likely formed thousands of years ago as a lagoon left behind by the shifting Red River (Sông Hồng). Over time, the river’s course changed, creating a narrow land strip between the lake and the river, reinforced later by human-made embankments. But even the scientific truth doesn’t erase the poetry of the place. The lake’s still waters continue to hold the whisper of myth — and perhaps, the quiet pulse of that golden buffalo deep beneath. 👑 A Royal Playground Through the Centuries In Vietnam’s feudal era, West Lake wasn’t just a natural wonder — it was a royal retreat. Monarchs from the Ly, Tran, and Le dynasties built summer palaces and spiritual sanctuaries along its banks, seeking tranquility and inspiration. One of the most notable constructions was Trấn Quốc Pagoda, originally founded in the 6th century and known as Vietnam’s oldest pagoda. Sitting gracefully on a small islet connected by a red bridge, it became a sacred center for meditation and royal ceremonies. Even today, monks in saffron robes can be seen tending to the pagoda’s gardens, and visitors come from around the world to light incense, admire the intricate statues, and enjoy panoramic views of the lake at sunset. 🌅 West Lake Today (2025): The Beating Heart of Modern Hanoi Fast-forward to 2025, and West Lake has transformed into Hanoi’s most desirable neighborhood — a mix of traditional charm and cosmopolitan sophistication. Expats, artists, and young professionals call this area home. You’ll find luxury hotels, rooftop bars, craft cafés, yoga studios, and peaceful walking paths circling the water. Despite the modern vibe, the air of legend still lingers — especially at dawn, when mist hangs low and the sound of temple bells drifts across the lake. ✨ What to Experience Around West Lake (2025): 🚴‍♀️ Cycle or walk the 17km perimeter for incredible sunrise and sunset views. 🛕 Visit Trấn Quốc Pagoda, the city’s oldest religious site. 🍵 Enjoy lakeside dining at chic spots like Maison de Tet Décor, El Gaucho Steakhouse, or The Sunset Bar at InterContinental Hanoi Westlake. 🚤 Take a paddle boat ride on the nearby Trúc Bạch Lake, especially at sunset. 📸 Capture iconic Hanoi views from Thanh Niên Street — the narrow causeway separating West Lake and Trúc Bạch Lake. 💬 The Legend Lives On: West Lake in Local Culture The legend of the golden buffalo isn’t just an old folktale — it continues to live in Hanoi’s identity. Local artists, poets, and musicians still reference the mythical creature as a symbol of power, endurance, and prosperity. During the Lunar New Year (Tết), families visit West Lake to release carp into the water — a symbolic act of letting go of misfortune and inviting blessings. Lovers stroll under the flame trees, while elders practice tai chi by the lakeshore, connecting spiritual calm with physical harmony. In every season, the lake changes character:🌸 Spring brings soft blossoms around the temples.☀️ Summer fills the air with lotus fragrance.🍂 Autumn paints the waters gold.❄️ Winter wraps the lake in silver mist. Each phase reflects the rhythm of Hanoi’s heart — gentle, reflective, and eternal. 🌿 Practical Tips for Visiting West Lake in 2025 ✅ Best Time to Visit: Early morning (5–7 am) for sunrise tranquility, or late afternoon (4–6 pm) for magical golden light.✅ Getting There: Only a 10-minute drive from Hanoi’s Old Quarter by motorbike or taxi.✅ Local Eats: Try Bánh tôm Hồ Tây (crispy shrimp pancakes) — a Hanoi specialty born right here by the lakeside.✅ Don’t Miss: Watching the sunset from The Summit Bar at Pan Pacific...Gunners’ Memorial Hanoi - 🇻🇳 Gunners’ Memorial Hanoi – A Silent Witness of Courage and History📍 Location: North of Quan Thanh Temple, along Thanh Nien Street, Hanoi🕒 Open 24/7 • Free Entry 💫 Introduction: Where History Meets the Lakeside Peace of Hanoi As you stroll along Thanh Nien Street, the tree-lined causeway separating West Lake (Ho Tay) and Truc Bach Lake, you’ll come across a modest yet profoundly symbolic monument — the Gunners’ Memorial. Though small in size, this landmark holds immense historical and emotional weight. It honors the Vietnamese anti-aircraft units who defended Hanoi during the American War (Vietnam War), and it marks the very site where U.S. Navy Lieutenant Commander John McCain’s plane was shot down in October 1967. Today, the Gunners’ Memorial is more than just a war relic — it’s a poignant reminder of resilience, reconciliation, and how far Vietnam has come since those turbulent years. In 2025, with Hanoi’s lakeside neighborhoods thriving with life and culture, this quiet memorial stands as a powerful symbol of peace and remembrance. ⚔️ A Glimpse Back in Time: The Story Behind the Memorial During the intense bombing campaigns of the late 1960s, anti-aircraft defense teams were stationed around Hanoi to protect key government buildings and cultural landmarks. The Gunners’ Memorial pays tribute to those brave soldiers who operated anti-aircraft cannons in the area — a crucial part of Hanoi’s defense network. On October 26, 1967, during an airstrike over Hanoi, Lieutenant Commander John McCain’s A-4 Skyhawk was struck by a missile launched from this very position. His plane crashed into Truc Bach Lake, just a few meters away from where the memorial now stands. Locals rushed to rescue McCain from the lake before he was taken prisoner — an event that would shape his life for years to come. McCain spent over five years as a prisoner of war in Hoa Lo Prison (nicknamed the “Hanoi Hilton”) before being released in 1973. 🕊️ From Conflict to Connection: The Story’s Human Side What makes this site truly remarkable is not just its wartime legacy, but the spirit of reconciliation it embodies today. When John McCain returned to Hanoi decades later as a U.S. Senator, he stood beside the very lake where he had fallen — not as an enemy, but as a guest and a symbol of friendship between two former foes. Vietnam and the United States have since developed strong diplomatic and economic ties, and sites like the Gunners’ Memorial remind visitors how history, though painful, can evolve into mutual respect and understanding. Standing at the memorial in 2025, you’ll see local couples taking photos, children riding bicycles, and vendors selling coconut ice cream by the lake — everyday life flowing peacefully where once war raged. 🏛️ What to See at the Gunners’ Memorial The memorial itself is small but evocative — a stone monument engraved in Vietnamese, surrounded by flowering shrubs and shaded by tamarind and flame trees. It’s easy to miss if you’re not looking for it, but the simplicity adds to its charm and solemnity. 🔹 Inscription: The plaque honors the anti-aircraft gunners who “bravely fought and shot down enemy planes over Truc Bach Lake.”🔹 Scenic Backdrop: The site offers a serene view of Truc Bach Lake, with reflections of surrounding trees and small cafés — perfect for quiet contemplation.🔹 Nearby Attractions: Within walking distance are Quan Thanh Temple, Tran Quoc Pagoda, and several lakeside coffee shops where you can sit and soak in Hanoi’s tranquil beauty. 📷 Travel Tips for 2025 Visitors ⏰ Best Time to Visit: Early morning or just before sunset, when the light over Truc Bach Lake is golden and soft — ideal for photography. 🚶 Getting There: It’s about a 10-minute taxi or motorbike ride from Hanoi Old Quarter. You can also walk along Thanh Nien Street if you’re exploring nearby West Lake. ☕ Where to Rest: After visiting, grab a seat at one of Truc Bach’s cozy lakeside cafés such as Maison de Tet Décor or The Coffee House. Both offer great views and relaxing vibes. 🎧 Combine It With: Visiting Quan Thanh Temple (Guardian of the North) and Tran Quoc Pagoda, the oldest Buddhist pagoda in Hanoi — both just a short stroll away. 🧭 Why You Should Visit For travelers interested in Vietnam’s layered history, the Gunners’ Memorial is a must-visit stop. It’s not a grand or heavily visited landmark, but its quiet dignity captures something deeply human — the endurance of memory, the cost of peace, and the beauty of moving forward. Here, history doesn’t shout; it whispers across the calm waters of Truc Bach Lake. You’ll feel the stillness, the reflection — both literal and emotional — that makes Hanoi so captivating. ❤️ Final Thoughts: A Small Monument with a Big Message In a city where ancient temples, colonial architecture, and modern cafés coexist harmoniously, the Gunners’ Memorial serves as a gentle yet powerful bridge between Hanoi’s past and present. It reminds visitors that while the city continues to grow and modernize — with electric scooters, tech startups, and vibrant nightlife — the soul of Hanoi remains grounded in remembrance, gratitude, and humanity. If you ever find yourself wandering between West Lake and Truc Bach Lake, pause here for a few quiet minutes. Listen to the breeze rustling through the trees, watch the ripples on the lake’s surface, and reflect on how far the world has come since 1967. ✨ Travel Tip Recap✅ Location: Thanh Nien Street, between West Lake & Truc Bach Lake✅ Entry: Free, open 24 hours✅ Nearby: Quan Thanh Temple, Tran Quoc Pagoda, Truc Bach cafés✅ Best time: Sunrise or sunset for the most peaceful atmosphere 🌿 Hanoi’s Gunners’ Memorial isn’t just about history — it’s about hope.A story of courage, survival, and the quiet strength that defines Vietnam’s capital.

Reviews

5/5
Excellent
(121 Reviews)
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119
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121 reviews on this Tour - Showing 91 to 105
Da Nang Vietnam
Madeline
11/03/2025

Excellent!

Our Myanmar adventure was beyond anything we imagined. Thanks to VTP Travel’s amazing organization, we explored at a relaxed pace and learned so much. The guide’s English was excellent, and the personal stories added depth to every destination. We highly recommend them.
Da Nang Vietnam
Kelli
10/03/2025

Excellent!

VTP Travel truly impressed me with their Vietnam tour planning. The hotels they chose were both comfortable and conveniently located, and the local cuisine was fantastic. The English-speaking guides were knowledgeable and personable, making each destination come alive with rich historical and cultural stories. The whole trip was seamless and exceeded my expectations.
Da Nang Vietnam
Mckenzie
10/03/2025

Excellent!

I was skeptical about booking online, but VTP Travel completely changed my mind. Their responsiveness and professionalism were exceptional. Our Cambodia tour was thoughtfully organized, and the guide’s English was flawless. We felt truly taken care of throughout the trip.
Da Nang Vietnam
Ryleigh
10/03/2025

Excellent!

Vietnam with VTP Travel was a journey full of discovery. Every hotel was carefully chosen for comfort and accessibility. The food was delicious and authentic, and the English-speaking guides were knowledgeable and engaging, making history and culture come alive with their stories. Their professionalism ensured a smooth and enjoyable experience from beginning to end.
Da Nang Vietnam
Leah
10/03/2025

Excellent!

Myanmar trip smooth and rewarding. Hotels combined comfort with traditional style. Guides passionate and well-informed, ensuring full appreciation of country’s rich cultural heritage.
Da Nang Vietnam
Cynthia
10/03/2025

Excellent!

I highly recommend VTP Travel for Laos tours. The hotels were charming and provided great comfort. The itinerary was well thought out to include cultural experiences and beautiful scenery. Our English-speaking guides were friendly, knowledgeable, and patient, enriching each visit with interesting stories and historical context.
Da Nang Vietnam
Molly
09/03/2025

Excellent!

Vietnam is a beautiful country, and VTP Travel knows exactly how to show it. Our hotels were comfortable and in great locations. Each day was filled with enriching activities, and our guide's fluent English made learning about Vietnamese culture fun and easy. I’d highly recommend them to anyone looking for an immersive yet relaxing journey.
Da Nang Vietnam
Mariah
08/03/2025

Excellent!

Vietnam tours by VTP Travel are simply outstanding. Every hotel was carefully selected to provide comfort and convenience, and the food experiences were authentic and delicious. The English-speaking guides were professional and enthusiastic, providing fascinating historical context and ensuring a comfortable, educational trip from start to finish.
Da Nang Vietnam
Sergio
06/03/2025

Excellent!

Vietnam with VTP Travel was a truly enjoyable experience. Every aspect of the tour was carefully organized, from hotel selection to daily activities. The local cuisine was delicious, and the English-speaking guides were professional and knowledgeable, making the history and culture of each place vivid and engaging throughout the trip.
Da Nang Vietnam
Sierra
05/03/2025

Excellent!

Traveling Myanmar with VTP Travel was a deeply rewarding experience. The itinerary was thoughtfully crafted, the hotels comfortable and culturally authentic. The English-speaking guides were warm, professional, and highly knowledgeable, ensuring a smooth, safe, and enriching journey.
Da Nang Vietnam
Eduardo
05/03/2025

Excellent!

VTP Travel’s Vietnam tour was perfectly organized and enjoyable. Hotels were clean, comfortable, and well located. English-speaking guides were knowledgeable, friendly, and eager to share local history and traditions.
Da Nang Vietnam
Marc
05/03/2025

Excellent!

Our trip to Cambodia with VTP Travel was an unforgettable adventure. The organization was seamless, from airport pickup to daily activities. The guide was fantastic—fluent in English and full of knowledge. We especially loved the food and cultural experiences woven throughout the itinerary. We’d absolutely travel with them again.
Da Nang Vietnam
Glenn
04/03/2025

Excellent!

Booking my Cambodia tour with VTP Travel was a wonderful decision. The team was highly responsive and tailored the itinerary exactly to my interests. The hotels were cozy and conveniently located, while the guides spoke fluent English and were passionate about sharing Cambodia’s culture. The experience was immersive, educational, and truly memorable.
Da Nang Vietnam
Gail
03/03/2025

Excellent!

Our Cambodia adventure with VTP Travel went beyond what we imagined. The itinerary included both famous landmarks and quiet cultural experiences. The tour guide’s English was excellent, and the group size was just right. We felt safe, comfortable, and excited every day.
Da Nang Vietnam
Dennis
03/03/2025

Excellent!

My Myanmar tour arranged by VTP Travel exceeded all my expectations. The itinerary was well balanced between sightseeing and cultural immersion. The hotels were comfortable and authentic, and the English-speaking guides were professional and passionate, providing valuable insights that brought Myanmar’s history and traditions to life.

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From: €363
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