Explore Vietnam 7 Days

Our adventure begins at 8:00 am as we depart from your hotel lobby for Ninh Binh province, where the captivating Hoa Lu and Tam Coc await, attracting visitors from all corners of the globe. Around 10:30 am, we'll arrive at the Hoa Lu Ancient Capital. In the year 968, Dinh Bo Linh proclaimed himself as King, and Hoa Lu served as the capital for the next 41 years (968 - 1009). During this period, the country was named Dai Co Viet, and it was ruled by the Dinh dynasty under King Dinh Tien Hoang for 12 years. Later, for 29 years, the Le dynasty under King Le Dai Hanh took over. In 1010, King Ly Thai To relocated the capital to Thang Long, known as present-day Hanoi, while Hoa Lu became the old citadel. Today, there are two temples built on the old royal palace's grounds, one dedicated to King Dinh Tien Hoang and the other to King Le Dai Hanh. This visit offers a glimpse into Vietnam's feudal dynasties and historical periods. At 1:30 pm, a 5-minute walk will take us to the boat station, where we'll start a 2-hour boat trip to explore Tam Coc, also referred to as "Halong Bay on land." Along the Ngo Dong River, three limestone caves, Hang Ca (first cave), Hang Hai (second cave), and Hang Ba (third cave), form a mesmerizing journey. Enjoy the tranquil scenery of limestone mountains, lush rice paddies, and the sight of some temples along the way. The boat trip is a truly delightful experience. At 4:00 pm, we'll depart from Tam Coc and return to Hanoi. We'll reach Hanoi around 6:00 pm. Accommodation: Hanoi Hotel - The Light Hotel or Boutique Hotel (or similar) Meals: Breakfast and Lunch

Note: Hanoi – Halong Bay – Hanoi by Cruise’s shuttle bus. Embark on an enchanting journey from Hanoi to Halong Bay, passing through the fertile farmlands of the Red River Delta. Witness the vibrant daily life of Vietnamese Villages, where locals tend to rice fields, transport live pigs on bicycles, and cultivate the land with majestic water buffaloes. Upon arrival in Halong, step aboard a traditional sailing junk. As the vessel gracefully sets sail, our dedicated Crew Team will welcome you, ensuring the highest standard of service for your ultimate comfort and pleasure onboard. Explore the wonders scattered across the Bay of the Descending Dragon during the afternoon, from captivating caves and pristine beaches to picturesque floating villages and breathtaking rock formations emerging from the emerald waters. Onboard, relish in the cruise services at your leisure; attend our chef's cooking demonstration to hone your skills in traditional Vietnamese cuisine. A highlight of your journey, our dining-room will present a refined, innovative, and diverse cuisine for both Lunch and Dinner, accompanied by a selection of wines and beverages (additional charges apply) to complement your meal. In the evening, indulge in entertainment activities like movie night, squid fishing, or simply savor a cocktail amidst the serene limestone rocks that majestically emerge from the silent waters under the night sky. Overnight stay on board, immersed in the captivating beauty of Halong Bay. Note: Halong Bay Royal Palace Cruise

For early risers, a Tai Chi demonstration on the sundeck greets the break of dawn. Begin the day with a delightful light breakfast followed by a colorful brunch. Continue the exploration of Halong Bay, sailing amidst its 2000 islets and visiting its major highlights. After the tour, transfer to Noi Bai airport for your flight to Saigon in the late afternoon. Enjoy an overnight stay at a hotel in Saigon. Accommodation in Ho Chi Minh City: Prague Hotel or Savouna Hotel - Similar

At 08:30, our guide and vehicle will pick you up from the hotel lobby for an enriching visit. The Cu Chi Tunnels form an immense network of interconnected tunnels near Saigon, which are part of a larger underground network spread across the country. Exploring these tunnels with a knowledgeable guide offers insight into their historical significance, the challenges of living underground, and the resilience of the Vietnamese during combat. Initially used by Viet Cong guerrillas as hiding spots to evade French air and ground operations, these tunnels later served as communication routes, storage facilities, hospitals, and living quarters for the guerrilla fighters throughout the Vietnam-American War. You'll have the opportunity to enter a section of the tunnels to experience their secrets firsthand. Your guide will also demonstrate various mantraps used during this period, show the remains of an American tank, and point out numerous B52 bomb craters. Additionally, there is an opportunity to fire an M60, M16, or AK47 rifle at the range next to the tunnel complex. After returning to Saigon, embark on a city tour with your guide, visiting historic landmarks. Explore the former Presidential Palace, the Saigon Government headquarters during the Vietnam-American War. For a vivid insight into the Vietnam-American War from a Vietnamese perspective, consider visiting the War Remnants Museum. Next, marvel at the red-brick Notre Dame Cathedral with its twin spires, modeled after the original construction in Paris. Adjacent to the cathedral is the Central Post Office, an architectural gem designed by Gustav Eiffel, the famed French architect. Enjoy an overnight stay in Ho Chi Minh City.

Today, we set sail to My Tho, the capital of Tien Giang Province, situated on the Mekong River, 75 kilometers southeast of Ho Chi Minh City. The city's picturesque surroundings are adorned with lush orchards and rice fields, providing grain for the entire country. We'll visit one or two of the islands renowned for producing traditional handcrafts, delectable coconut candy, and thriving bee farms. Don't miss the opportunity to explore the Vinh Trang Pagoda, the oldest pagoda in the delta, as we embark on a captivating boat trip on the Mekong River. Later, we'll return to Ho Chi Minh City for check-in at the hotel and an overnight stay.

Enjoy a leisurely breakfast at the hotel, and the rest of the day is yours to savor at your own pace. Check-out is at 12:00 noon. If you wish to explore other captivating destinations in Vietnam, we are available to assist you in planning your next exciting itinerary.