Magical Vietnam 11 Days

Today is a full day dedicated to exploring the unique charm of Hanoi, an Asian metropolis characterized by a combination of tree-lined boulevards, ancient pagodas and temples, French colonial architecture, and peaceful lakes. Your guide will meet you at your hotel between 8:00-8:45 am. Your adventure begins with a visit to the Ho Chi Minh complex, where you will discover the final resting place of Vietnam's beloved President, Ho Chi Minh, at his mausoleum. You will also have the opportunity to explore his stilt house, where he lived and worked from 1958 to 1969, as well as the Ho Chi Minh Museum, where you will learn about his remarkable contribution to Vietnam. Next, visit the Tran Quoc Pagoda, a national heritage site and Buddhist temple located on the banks of West Lake. From there, proceed to the Ethnology Museum (open on Sundays, Tuesdays, Thursdays, and Saturdays), which showcases the cultural diversity of Vietnam's 54 ethnic groups. Enjoy lunch at a local restaurant before continuing on to the Temple of Literature, Vietnam's first university and a remarkable example of ancient architecture. Constructed in 1073 to honor Confucius and Chu Van An, the headmaster of the Imperial College, the temple represents the high moral philosophy and ethics of Vietnamese education. In the afternoon, return to Hoan Kiem Lake to visit the Ngoc Son Temple and admire the fusion of Vietnamese and French architecture around the lake. Overnight in Hanoi.

On this day, you will witness the fusion of Vietnam's rich history and splendid landscapes on your excursion to the province of Ninh Binh. Your expert guide will greet you at your hotel at 7:30-8:00 am and accompany you on a picturesque drive to Ninh Binh. Your first destination is the Hoa Lu ancient capital, where you will marvel at the exquisite architectural prowess of King Dinh and King Le temples, the first emperors of ancient Vietnam. Next, you will travel to Tam Coc wharf, where a delightful Vietnamese lunch awaits. You will then embark on a scenic boat ride, floating along the river and through the mystical limestone caves. After the boat ride, you will hop on a bike and pedal your way through the charming village, meandering through the lush rice fields while taking in the scenic surroundings. In the evening, return to the shuttle bus for a relaxing drive back to your hotel in Hanoi. Overnight in Hanoi.

In the morning, bid farewell to Hanoi as you check out of your hotel and embark on an enchanting journey to Halong Bay, renowned for its breathtaking natural beauty and captivating scenery. As you traverse the Red River Delta, the landscape unfolds before your eyes, revealing verdant rice paddies stretching as far as the horizon. Upon reaching the pier, board your cruise and set sail on a voyage of discovery. Feast your eyes on the majestic limestone rocks and stunning karst grottoes that define the bay. Indulge in a delectable seafood lunch on board, and spend time relaxing on the sun deck as you take in the stunning views of the bay. Your cruise will dock in a secluded cove, where you can venture closer to the karst grottoes by kayak or go for a refreshing swim in the tranquil waters. As the day winds down, return to the boat for a delightful early dinner, followed by some leisure time to either join in the boat's activities or unwind at your leisure. Overnight on the cruise. Note: In case of unfavorable weather conditions that prohibit the boat from setting sail or overnighting at sea, the Halong Bay tour may be canceled without prior notice. We will offer alternative tours or provide a refund based on the specific circumstances.

Get ready for an early morning experience as you witness the awe-inspiring sunrise at one of nature's wonders. Enjoy a delicious breakfast in the dining room as you take in the beautiful scenery. Afterward, join a Tai Chi class on the sun deck to energize your mind and body. Embark on a journey to explore a limestone cave full of magnificent stalactites and stalagmites before returning to the cruise for check-out. Savor a delectable brunch while the cruise sails back to the harbor. Afterward, you will be transferred to Hanoi to catch your flight to Hue. Upon arrival in Hue, your private driver will be waiting for you at the airport to take you to your accommodation. Overnight in Hue.

Hue City, the cultural, political, and economic hub of Thua Thien Hue province, was the imperial capital of Vietnam under the Nguyen Dynasty. This era saw the creation of stunning architectural wonders that are now recognized as UNESCO World Heritage sites. Your knowledgeable guide will meet you at your hotel between 8:00-8:30 am to begin your exploration. Embark on a serene boat ride along the Perfume River to the Thien Mu Pagoda, which is one of Hue's oldest and most beautiful pagodas. Next, visit the Imperial Citadel, the Nguyen Dynasty's seat of power from 1802 to 1945. While here, explore the Royal Antiquities Museum, which houses an extensive collection of Nguyen dynasty ornaments. Afterward, continue your journey to the vibrant Dong Ba market. Enjoy a delightful Vietnamese lunch, and in the afternoon, proceed to Khai Dinh's Tomb, which blends traditional Vietnamese design with European elements to create a unique, captivating structure. Then, explore Minh Mang's Tomb, which exemplifies the Confucian style of architecture. Along the way, make a stop at villages that produce conical hats and incense sticks. Return to your hotel around 4:00-5:00 pm, with the evening free to explore Hue's lively streets and savor the city's rich culture. Overnight in Hue.

Start your day with a hearty breakfast at the hotel before embarking on a private car transfer from Hue to Hoi An. The journey will take you on a breathtaking drive through the stunning Hai Van Pass, regarded as one of the most scenic roads in the world. You will be captivated by the panoramic views of the mountains and the sea that stretch before you. Upon reaching Hoi An, check in to your hotel and spend the rest of the day at leisure exploring the surrounding area. Overnight in Hoi An. Day 8: Flight from Hoi An to Ho Chi Minh City (B) Enjoy your remaining time in Hoi An before your private driver escorts you to Da Nang airport to catch your flight to Ho Chi Minh City. Upon arrival, your driver will pick you up and transfer you to your accommodation in the city center. The remainder of the day is free for you to spend at your leisure. Overnight in Ho Chi Minh City.

Enjoy your remaining time in Hoi An before your private driver escorts you to Da Nang airport to catch your flight to Ho Chi Minh City. Upon arrival, your driver will pick you up and transfer you to your accommodation in the city center. The remainder of the day is free for you to spend at your leisure. Overnight in Ho Chi Minh City.

After a nourishing breakfast, prepare for an adventure to the Mekong Delta. Your guide will meet you at the hotel lobby around 7:15-7:30 am, and you'll journey to My Tho, a picturesque town located on the left bank of the Mekong River. Upon arrival, hop aboard a sampan boat and cruise down the river, meandering through the four charming islets: Dragon, Unicorn, Phoenix, and Tortoise. Pause at Unicorn Island, take a leisurely stroll along the rustic lanes, and witness the verdant orchards. You'll have a chance to visit the fruit plantations and indulge in the succulent tropical fruits while enjoying folk music performed by the locals. Next, take a hand-rowed sampan boat through the Thoi Son canal, surrounded by the breathtaking scenery of the countryside. Visit family-owned workshops and a honey-bee farm, where you can savor some honey tea and coconut candies. After a traditional Vietnamese lunch, take a bike ride around the Tan Thach village to interact with the friendly locals and gain a firsthand experience of their daily life in the Mekong Delta. If cycling is not your thing, enjoy a refreshing breeze and some downtime in a hammock. You will return to your accommodation in the late afternoon. Overnight in Ho Chi Minh.

Get ready for an exciting day of exploration and discovery in Ho Chi Minh City. After breakfast, your guide will meet you at the hotel lobby and take you on a tour of some of the city's most famous French colonial buildings. Marvel at the grandeur of the Independence Palace, also known as the Reunification Palace, designed by architect Ngo Viet Thu. Then, take a stroll around the iconic Notre Dame Cathedral and the historic Central Post Office, which are both prime examples of French colonial architecture. Continue on to the War Remnants Museum, which offers a sobering glimpse into the Indochina wars. Gain a deeper understanding of Vietnam's history and learn about the brave people who fought for their independence. After lunch at a local restaurant, you will embark on a journey to the Cu Chi Tunnels, approximately one and a half hours away from Ho Chi Minh City. Once there, you'll get a short introduction to the tunnels' construction and learn how people survived during the war. Explore the remaining area and tunnel systems, including specially constructed living quarters, kitchens, and bedrooms alongside martial facilities like storage, weapons factories, field hospitals, and command centers. Get a feel for the harsh conditions of wartime as you navigate through the maze-like tunnels, which include hidden trap doors and dangerous traps for security purposes. Before you depart, try a special tea and cassava, which was a staple food for guerillas during the war. After a day filled with adventure and discovery, you'll return to your hotel for a well-deserved rest. Overnight in Ho Chi Minh City.

Start your final day in Vietnam with a nourishing breakfast before checking out of your hotel. Before bidding adieu to this beautiful country, take some time to wander through the vibrant local markets, where you can pick up some charming souvenirs for your friends and family back home. In due time, your private driver will transport you to the airport, where you can board your flight back to your home country. Reflect on the memories you have made during your journey through Vietnam, and feel grateful for the warmth and hospitality of the Vietnamese people. As your trip comes to an end, take this opportunity to express your sincere gratitude to those who have made your stay in Vietnam unforgettable. From your knowledgeable guides to the friendly locals you have met along the way, your heart will be filled with appreciation for the many people who have touched your journey. Trip Ends.