Central and Southern Vietnamese Taste 10 days

From: ₹704 4-star hotels

4.9

(120 reviews)

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Duration

10 Days

Tour Type

Daily Tour

Group Size

Unlimited

Languages

English

About this tour

Ho Chi Minh City – Mekong Delta – Da Nang – Hoi An – Nha Trang

By combining culinary delights and immersive adventures, both visitors and residents can connect harmoniously. This expedition offers a chance to explore the renowned landmarks of Vietnam, engage in cooking sessions led by esteemed culinary artisans, and savor an array of delectable dishes. From the historical streets of Hanoi to the serene shores of Hoi An and the vibrant energy of Saigon, a gastronomic journey throughout Vietnam ensures a feast for the senses at every turn! Embrace a 10-day exploration of Central and Southern Vietnamese cuisine in its fullest essence.

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

Please click here: View Hotel List

Itinerary

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

AM Schedule:

Upon arrival at Ho Chi Minh City, our designated tour guide will warmly receive you at the airport and accompany you to the centrally located hotel.
PM Schedule:

Complete your check-in procedure at the hotel by 14:00.
Relax and unwind at the hotel until dinner time.
Evening:

Delight in a scrumptious dinner arranged for you within the premises of your hotel.
Note: Considering the potential congestion at both international and domestic airports throughout the day, our representatives will be stationed at Pole No.10 (outside the Terminal Gate). Kindly contact us upon arrival to facilitate an easy rendezvous with your tour guide.

Accommodation: Hotel in Ho Chi Minh City

<span> Day 2</span> Sai Gon Night Life On Motorbike (Group Tour only)

Morning & Afternoon:

Embrace the lively essence of this vibrant city at your leisure during daylight hours.
Evening:

Embark on an enthralling city tour, immersing yourself in Saigon's nightlife.
Explore some of the city's animated locales offering diverse entertainment services.
Delve into the bustling Chinatown, a bustling district in Ho Chi Minh City where an array of captivating fusion cuisine, blending Vietnamese and Chinese flavors, awaits.
Visit Hai Thuong Lang Ong street adorned with charming traditional handicrafts such as lanterns and decorative items.
Relish a light dinner featuring authentic Vietnamese dishes.
Venture to the Ho Thi Ky flower market, Saigon's largest flower market, and capture the vibrant beauty in a mesmerizing floral setting.
Witness a different perspective of this bustling metropolis along the Saigon River at night.
Uncover the city's hidden charm by traversing the Thu Thiem Tunnel, Southeast Asia's longest tunnel, offering captivating vistas across the river.

Accommodation: Hotel in Ho Chi Minh City

<span> Day 3</span> Ho Chi Minh Cooking Class Half-Day

Engage in the Ho Chi Minh Cooking Class, an ideal opportunity to savor Saigon's delectable cuisine.
Next on the itinerary is an immersive experience in the authentic agricultural life at the Ho Chi Minh Agricultural Village.
Interact with a variety of charming animals at the farm and don the "nón lá," a traditional Vietnamese hat, embracing the challenges of cultivating vegetables or mushrooms.
Under the guidance of a local culinary expert, learn the art of cooking and acquire a range of authentic Vietnamese recipes, including three savory dishes and one dessert.

Accommodation: Hotel in Ho Chi Minh City

<span> Day 4</span> Mekong Delta Full day

AM Schedule:

Cruise along the enchanting Ham Luong River on a traditional rowing boat, halting at various local establishments to witness their everyday activities.
Engage in an enthralling workshop showcasing the craft of brickwork, coconut oil production, and the art of weaving mats from straws, promising a wealth of new experiences.
Noon:

The boat will dock at a serene village where you can briefly immerse yourself in authentic Delta village life. Afterward, hop onto a 'xe loi' (a form of motorized rickshaw) to journey into the forest, visiting fruit orchards before arriving at a riverside restaurant for a delightful lunch.
Indulge in local specialties like elephant-ear fish and river shrimp, accompanied by refreshing cold beverages or beer.
Afternoon:

Conclude the expedition with a serene boat excursion through narrow canals.
Around 17:00: Return to your hotel in Saigon.

Accommodation: Hotel in Ho Chi Minh City

<span> Day 5</span> Ho Chi Minh fly to Da Nang, Hoi An

AM Schedule:

Allowing yourself some leisure time to unwind and prepare before our designated driver arrives to escort you to the airport for your flight to Da Nang.
Afternoon:

Proceed to the Hoi An hotel for check-in.

Accommodation: Hotel in Hoi An

<span> Day 6</span> Hoi An Cooking Class Half-Day

AM Schedule:

Commence your day with a refreshing welcome beverage at the designated meeting spot within Hoi An Ancient Town in the morning. Revel in the captivating ambiance filled with the town's lively sights, sounds, and enticing aromas.

Stroll through the bustling main market of Hoi An, engaging with local vendors and experiencing the remarkable array of foods available for sight and taste.

Embark on a serene Red Bridge boat journey (approximately half an hour) along the Hoi An River to reach the Cooking School, offering a closer look at local river life and an enchanting view of Hoi An's ancient allure from the water.

Immerse yourself in a two-hour cooking lesson guided by a skilled local chef, delving into the intricacies of crafting each dish.

Take time to independently prepare the dishes before relishing your culinary creations.

Noon:

The class concludes around 12:30.

Transfer back to central Hoi An.

Note: Lunch includes the aforementioned meals.

Accommodation: Hotel in Hoi An

<span> Day 7</span> Hoi An, Da Nang fly to Nha Trang

AM Schedule:

Utilize some leisure time to explore and wander through the charming streets of Hoi An until your driver arrives at Da Nang airport to transport you to the next destination, the breathtaking coastal city of Nha Trang.
Afternoon:

Upon arrival at Cam Ranh airport, our tour guide will escort you to the prearranged hotel.
Settle in and unwind at your hotel, where you will spend the night.

Accommodation: Hotel in Nha Trang

Afternoon/Evening:

Immerse yourself in a multitude of thrilling water activities and embrace the vibrant nightlife.
Explore an extensive selection of rejuvenating wellness services tailored for deep relaxation, including indulgences like mud baths, beach yoga, and massages.

Accommodation: Hotel in Nha Trang

Explore the unspoiled nearby islands like Monkey Island, Tam Island, and Orchard Island during your stay in Nha Trang.

The captivating landscapes will undoubtedly enchant you, fostering a deep admiration for these serene islands.

Don't forget to pack your swimsuits and cameras to seize these beautiful moments.

Accommodation: Hotel in Nha Trang

<span> Day 10</span> Nha Trang fly back to Ho Chi Minh

AM Schedule:

Enjoy some free time until our driver arrives to escort you to the airport for your return flight to Ho Chi Minh City.

Accommodation: Not Applicable

Durations

9 - 12 days

Languages

English

Regional Tours

Vietnam

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

BOOKING REQUEST

PRIVATE CUSTOMISED TRIP

Tour's Location

Ho Chi Minh City - Mekong Delta - Da Nang - Hoi An - Nha Trang

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.

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From: ₹704

4-star hotels

4.9 (120 Reviews)

Central and Southern Vietnamese Taste 10 days

About this tour

Included/Excluded

Itinerary

Day 1 Ho Chi Minh City Arrival

Day 2 Sai Gon Night Life On Motorbike (Group Tour only)

Day 3 Ho Chi Minh Cooking Class Half-Day

Day 4 Mekong Delta Full day

Day 5 Ho Chi Minh fly to Da Nang, Hoi An

Day 6 Hoi An Cooking Class Half-Day

Day 7 Hoi An, Da Nang fly to Nha Trang

Day 8 Nha Trang Free Day

Day 9 Nha Trang Free Day

Day 10 Nha Trang fly back to Ho Chi Minh

Durations

Languages

Regional Tours

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

Tour's Location

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