North And South Vietnam

From: $359 4-star hotels

(111 reviews)

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Duration

6 Days

Tour Type

Daily Tour

Group Size

Unlimited

Languages

English

About this tour

Hanoi, Halong Bay, Ho Chi Minh City, Cu Chi, Cai Be, Mekong Delta

Commence your journey in Hanoi and conclude in Ho Chi Minh City! Immerse yourself in the In-depth Cultural tour of North & South Vietnam for 6 days. This tour package guides you through Hanoi, Vietnam, and encompasses five additional destinations within the country. The 6-day itinerary features accommodation in well-selected hotels, inclusive of flights, expert guidance, meals, transportation, and more. Explore the diverse cultural landscapes of both northern and southern Vietnam on this enriching adventure.

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

Upon arrival at Noi Bai Airport, you will be warmly greeted by your guide and chauffeured in a private car to your hotel for check-in. Please note that the standard check-in time for hotels is 14:00, and the day's schedule will be adjusted based on your international flight arrival time. Enjoy an overnight stay in Hanoi.

<span> Day 2</span> Hanoi - Halong Bay Cruise stay overnight on Board

In the early hours of the morning, we will embark on a journey from Hanoi to the awe-inspiring Halong Bay, renowned for its breathtaking scenery. Encompassing an expansive area of 577 square miles, the bay is adorned with over 3,000 limestone "peaks" or karsts, emerging majestically from the deep blue waters as far as the eye can behold. Our exploration of this mesmerizing seascape, a journey lasting a day and a half, will include an overnight stay with dinner and breakfast served on board a traditional Vietnamese boat.

Experience comfort and intimacy as our boat features meticulously crafted wooden interiors, a dining room, and cozy air-conditioned cabins with private bathrooms. Spending the night on the water enables us to delve into the beauty of Ha Long Bay, with ample time for swimming and visits to some of the most colossal rock formations and caves. This promises to be an unforgettable travel experience in Asia. Enjoy an overnight stay on the boat.

Option 1: Opt for accommodation on the Garden Bay Cruises, a 3-star experience, or a similar option.

Option 2: Indulge in accommodation on the Paradise Sails, a 5-star offering, or a similar choice.

<span> Day 3</span> Halong Bay Cruise - Hanoi

Awakening to the serene sounds of the bay's gentle waves, we have the opportunity for an early morning swim, followed by a delightful breakfast. As you sit on the upper deck, you can unwind while marveling at the awe-inspiring beauty of the rocky islands emerging from the emerald waters of the bay.

Post breakfast, embark on an exploration of Sung Sot Cave, indulge in swimming, and take moments to relax. As the cruise makes its way back to the jetty, a brunch will be served, allowing you to enjoy more of the captivating formations along the route. Complete the cruise check-out and rejoin the car for the return journey to Hanoi, arriving at approximately 3:00 pm. Check into your hotel, and the remainder of the day is yours to explore the Old Quarter. Later, engage in a Water Puppet Show for an hour. Conclude the day with an overnight stay in Hanoi.

<span> Day 4</span> Fly to Ho Chi Minh City - Cu Chi Tunnels Excursion

After checking out, you will be transferred to the airport to catch an internal flight to Ho Chi Minh City.

Upon your arrival, our tour guide will be there to pick you up and facilitate your transfer to the Cu Chi Tunnels for an engaging half-day tour.

As we journey, enjoy the scenic views of lush, endless rice fields and observe water buffaloes and ducks leisurely swimming in the rivers. It may be hard to fathom that this area, now so tranquil, was once heavily bombarded during the war, designated as a "free target zone."

Upon reaching Cu Chi, you will have the opportunity to explore some of the tunnels, uncover hidden corners, and immerse yourself in the life of the resistance soldiers. For a unique experience, try your hand at cooking with the smokeless stoves used by the soldiers during the war. Additionally, savor foods that sustained the soldiers. If you're feeling adventurous or curious, there's even an option to try shooting an AK-47 (additional cost), one of the guns utilized during the war.

Return to your hotel around 6:30 pm, check in, and enjoy an overnight stay in Ho Chi Minh City.

<span> Day 5</span> Mekong Delta - Cai Be floating market full day

Embark on a journey to Cai Be, with a stop in Tan An town for picturesque views of flat rice fields, perfect for capturing memorable photos. Upon reaching Cai Be, board a motorboat to explore the bustling Cai Be floating market, observing locals engaged in lively fruit and commodity trading on their vessels. Venture into small villages to visit orchards and fruit plantations.

Cruise through Vinh Long via small canals, immersing yourself in the enchanting allure of the Upper Mekong Delta. Witness the process of making coconut candy and crispy rice popcorn at a local family business. Arrive at Binh Hoa Phuoc village, often referred to as the green pearl of Vinh Long town, where you can connect with nature. Indulge in a lunch of fresh river delicacies served in the heart of the garden, accompanied by the melodies of traditional southern Vietnamese folk music. Take a leisurely stroll through the bonsai garden.

Meet your driver again in Vinh Long, and return to Ho Chi Minh City. Check in at your hotel and enjoy an overnight stay in this vibrant city.

<span> Day 6</span> Saigon Conclude/ Departure

Enjoy a leisurely morning to unwind before your departure flight. Conclude your memorable journey organized by Legend Travel Group! Wishing you a safe and pleasant journey back home or to your next destination. Farewell, and we hope to welcome you again in Vietnam and Southeast Asia!

Airport transfer is included.

Durations

5 - 8 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

Hanoi, Halong Bay, Ho Chi Minh City, Cu Chi, Cai Be, Mekong Delta

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: $359

4-star hotels

5 (111 Reviews)

North and South Vietnam – 6 Days

About this tour

Included/Excluded

Itinerary

Day 1 Hanoi Arrival

Day 2 Hanoi - Halong Bay Cruise stay overnight on Board

Day 3 Halong Bay Cruise - Hanoi

Day 4 Fly to Ho Chi Minh City - Cu Chi Tunnels Excursion

Day 5 Mekong Delta - Cai Be floating market full day

Day 6 Saigon Conclude/ Departure

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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