Vietnam Delightful Holidays 9 Days

From: $862 4-star hotels

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Duration

9 days

Tour Type

Specific Tour

Group Size

Unlimited

Languages

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About this tour

Embark on a captivating 9-day VIETNAM DELIGHTFUL HOLIDAYS tour, starting in Hanoi and concluding in Ho Chi Minh City. Explore six incredible destinations in Vietnam, accompanied by expert guides, comfortable accommodations, meals, flights, and seamless transport arrangements. An unforgettable adventure awaits!

Highlights

* Ha Long Bay: A stunning bay with thousands of limestone cliffs and islets rising from the water. It is a UNESCO World Heritage Site and one of the most popular tourist destinations in Vietnam.
* Hoi An: A charming ancient town with traditional architecture, lantern-lined streets, and a rich history. It is also a UNESCO World Heritage Site.
* Ho Chi Minh City: The largest city in Vietnam, with a vibrant street life, French colonial architecture, and a bustling atmosphere.
* Da Nang: A coastal city with beautiful beaches, mountain scenery, and a vibrant food and drink scene.
* Hanoi: The capital of Vietnam, with a mix of old and new architecture, street food, and cultural sites such as the Ho Chi Minh Mausoleum and the Temple of Literature.

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
* All sightseeing as specified including entrance fees
* Airfares if specified in the program. ( E-Economy class, B-Business calss)
* Visa Approval Letter if specified in the program

• Compulsory tips for tour guide and driver
• Meals not mentioned in the program
• Any flights (Domestic and International) and airport tax
• 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>Hanoi Arrival - Private Transfer to Hotel / Free & Easy

Upon arrival at Noi Bai International Airport, our English-speaking guide will warmly welcome you. You'll be transferred to your hotel in the heart of Hanoi for check-in. If you arrive in the morning, you can enjoy an exciting one-hour cyclo tour through the charming Old Quarter, capturing the bustling local life with countless photo opportunities. In the late afternoon, you'll have the chance to watch the enchanting Water Puppet Show, a traditional art form dating back to the 11th century. Rest and unwind at your hotel for the night. Note: If your flight arrives in the late afternoon, you will have free time to relax and refresh after your journey. Hanoi Accommodation: Hanoi Boutique Hotel or similar Private Car for Pick-up Service: Toyota Brand - Fortuner - Altis - Vios or Santafe - similar Our driver will be waiting for you at the Arrival Terminal - Exit Gate, holding a welcome board with your full name.

<span> Day 2 </span>Hanoi City Tour Trip (B, L)

After breakfast at the hotel, our journey begins at 8:00 am with a van departing from your hotel. We'll visit the Ho Chi Minh Mausoleum, Presidential Palace, and his residence to learn about the remarkable life of Uncle Ho. Next, we'll explore the Temple of Literature, Vietnam's first university dating back to the 12th century, where we'll also enjoy a traditional music performance. Lunch will be served at a local restaurant, offering an authentic taste of Hanoi's Pho (noodle soup). In the afternoon, you can choose to visit one of the various museums or temples in Hanoi, such as the Museum of Ethnology, Women's Museum, History Museum, or Quan Thanh Temple. Later, take a leisurely walk around Hoan Kiem Lake and the captivating Old Quarter, where you can enjoy shopping, try traditional street food, and perhaps savor a "Hanoi bia." Experience the typical Hanoi lifestyle and immerse yourself in Vietnamese culture. In the evening, we'll attend a Water Puppet Show, a delightful experience loved by all visitors to Vietnam. Return to the hotel for an overnight stay in Hanoi. Accommodation: Hanoi Boutique Hotel 3* Meals: Breakfast, Lunch

<span> Day 3 </span>Halong Bay - Overnight on Cruise (B, L, D)

Following breakfast at the hotel, around 9:00 am, we'll pick you up in a private mini-van/bus to embark on our journey to Halong City. During the 3.5-hour drive, you'll witness the simplicity of countryside life and picturesque rice paddies. Upon arriving at the port, we'll board an authentic Chinese Junk, our private boat, to embark on an extraordinary cruise through the mesmerizing Halong Bay, a UNESCO World Heritage Site. Enjoy a delectable seafood lunch on board while immersing in the stunning surroundings. Our first stop is the "Surprising Cave & Wooden Grottoes," followed by a refreshing swim in the tranquil emerald waters of Halong Bay. We'll continue cruising to a serene area, where we'll anchor for the night. As the sun sets, indulge in a delicious dinner. You're then free to swim in the glowing phosphorescent waters, relax in your cabin, or fall asleep under the stars on the top deck, experiencing the enchantment of Halong Bay. If the weather permits, you can enjoy the sky bar on the top deck of the cruise, savor cocktails, mild wine, or try your hand at squid fishing. Overnight stay on the cruise. Accommodation: Garden Bay Cruises 3*, Le Journey Cruise 3*, or similar Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner

<span> Day 4 </span>Halong Bay - Return to Hanoi (B/L)

Begin your day with an early wake-up to witness a breathtaking sunrise and breathe in the fresh ocean air. Join the Tai Chi exercise with the crew on the deck before enjoying a delicious breakfast served on the Junk. As we cruise through the captivating Halong Bay with its endless islands, seize the opportunity to capture stunning photographs. We'll make a stop at a floating fishing village, where you can hear legendary stories of the fishermen's daily lives. Savor a delightful lunch on the cruise while making our way back to Halong City's harbor. Return to Hanoi and check in at the hotel for an overnight stay. Accommodation: Hanoi Boutique Hotel 3* Meals: Breakfast, Lunch on Cruise

<span> Day 5 </span>Hanoi Flight to Da Nang City / Hoi An Ancient Town (B)

This morning, board a domestic economy flight to Da Nang, a coastal city in Vietnam's Central Region. Explore the Cham Museum, showcasing a remarkable collection of sandstone carvings. Visit Cua Dai Beach and the Marble Mountains before continuing to the picturesque Hoi An, once a bustling international port during the 17th to 19th centuries. With influences from Japanese, Indian, Chinese, and Portuguese traders, Hoi An boasts original Chinese temples and elegant homes built by wealthy merchants of bygone eras. Spend the night in Hoi An. Accommodation: Rose Garden Hotel 3* or similar Meals: Breakfast

<span> Day 6 </span>Sailing on a Wooden Boat - Excursion to Hoi An on River (B)

Embark on a captivating full-day excursion to Hoi An, a historical trading hub once known as "Faifo" to early Western traders. Discover a temple adorned with partially gilded statues at its center, a pagoda dedicated to sailors and fishermen, and a chapel with roots dating back to the 1700s, reflecting the fusion of Chinese and Japanese architectural styles. Visit the Sa Huynh Museum, located near the iconic Japanese Covered Bridge, showcasing exhibitions from Hoi An's earliest history. In the late afternoon, take a scenic boat trip on the Thu Bon River to Kim Bong Village on Cam Kim Island, where you can witness skilled woodworkers and shipbuilding families at work. Return to the renowned "Cua Dai Beach" for a relaxing evening at your leisure. Spend the night in Hoi An. Accommodation: Rose Garden Hotel 3** or similar

<span> Day 7 </span>Da Nang - Ho Chi Minh City (Breakfast, Flight Included)

Enjoy your free time in Hoi An until it's time to catch your flight to Ho Chi Minh City, formerly known as Saigon. Upon arrival, you will be picked up at the airport and transferred to Saigon for check-in. Overnight in Ho Chi Minh City. Accommodation: Saigon Prague Hotel 3* or similar Meals: Breakfast

<span> Day 8 </span>Ho Chi Minh City - Cu Chi Tunnels (B, L)

Start your day with a delectable breakfast at the hotel. In the morning, explore the fascinating landmarks of Ho Chi Minh City, including the iconic Notre Dame Cathedral, historic Central Post Office, and the impressive Reunification Palace. Then, immerse yourself in the poignant history of the Vietnam War at the War Remnants Museum. Enjoy a delightful lunch at a local restaurant. In the afternoon, embark on a memorable journey to the Cu Chi Tunnels, a renowned destination for both local and international visitors. These tunnels, stretching over 200km, played a crucial role during the war, functioning as underground cities with trap doors, living areas, storage facilities, weapon factories, and more. Gain insight into the challenging conditions endured by the people and witness their remarkable ingenuity in maintaining life underground. Sample the simple cuisine that sustained local fighters and even venture into the tunnels for an immersive experience. Return to Ho Chi Minh City for the night. The distance from Saigon to Cu Chi Tunnels is approximately 75 km, taking about 1.5 hours to drive. Accommodation: Saigon Prague Hotel 3* or similar Meals: Breakfast, Lunch

<span> Day 9 </span>Departure and Check-out before 12:00 PM

Enjoy a delicious breakfast at your hotel, and then you will be transferred to the airport by private car for your international flight back home. The tour concludes, leaving you with cherished memories of your Vietnam experiences. Thank you for choosing VTP Travel, and we look forward to welcoming you back for more exciting adventures in the near future! Airport transfer included. Check-out time is before 12:00 PM. (Late check-out is subject to additional charges).

Durations

9 - 12 days

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, Da Nang, Hoi An, Cu Chi, Ho Chi Minh City

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: $862

4-star hotels

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Vietnam Delightful Holidays 9 Days

About this tour

Highlights

Included/Excluded

Itinerary

Day 1Hanoi Arrival - Private Transfer to Hotel / Free & Easy

Day 2 Hanoi City Tour Trip (B, L)

Day 3 Halong Bay - Overnight on Cruise (B, L, D)

Day 4 Halong Bay - Return to Hanoi (B/L)

Day 5 Hanoi Flight to Da Nang City / Hoi An Ancient Town (B)

Day 6 Sailing on a Wooden Boat - Excursion to Hoi An on River (B)

Day 7 Da Nang - Ho Chi Minh City (Breakfast, Flight Included)

Day 8 Ho Chi Minh City - Cu Chi Tunnels (B, L)

Day 9 Departure and Check-out before 12:00 PM

Durations

Regional Tours

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Tour's Location

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