Vietnam Essence & Gourmet Tour 9 Days

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4.8

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Duration

9 days

Tour Type

Specific Tour

Group Size

Unlimited

Languages

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About this tour

Embark on our 9-day Essential Vietnam tour, exploring the country’s significant cities. From the allure of Ho Chi Minh City’s French-style architecture to the authentic flavors of the Mekong Delta, each moment will captivate you.

Discover the UNESCO World Heritage Sites in Hoi An and Hue, where ancient buildings and enchanting streets transport you to another era.

Conclude your adventure in Hanoi, finding solace in its serenity, and indulge in the breathtaking beauty of Halong Bay on a mesmerizing cruise.

Join us on this remarkable journey through Essential Vietnam and unlock the essence of this enchanting land.

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.
* Hue: The former imperial capital of Vietnam, with ancient temples, tombs, and palaces. It is also a UNESCO World Heritage Site.
* 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> Arrival in Ho Chi Minh City

Welcome to Saigon, Vietnam's bustling financial hub. Upon arrival, our guide and driver will warmly receive you at the airport and transfer you to your hotel. Take the rest of the day to relax, recover from any jet lag, and explore the city at your own pace. Accommodation: Liberty Central Saigon Riverside Hotel (4 stars) or similar

After a refreshing breakfast, embark on a captivating city tour of Ho Chi Minh City, starting with a visit to the vibrant Chinatown, known as Cholon. Immerse yourself in the cultural richness as you explore the temples devoted to Tin Hau, Avalokitesvara, Buddha, and Taoism. Our next stop is the enlightening Museum of Traditional Vietnamese Medicine (FITO). Savor a delightful lunch before continuing our journey with visits to the War Remnants Museum and the former Presidential Palace. Conclude the day by marveling at the splendid French colonial architecture, including the iconic Notre Dame Cathedral and the historic Old Post Office. Meals: Breakfast, Lunch Accommodation: Liberty Central Saigon Riverside Hotel (4 stars) or similar

<span> Day 3 </span>Ho Chi Minh City - Ben Tre - Ho Chi Minh City

Escape the bustling city today and embark on a scenic 90km (2-hour) drive to Ben Tre. Board your private boat and let the captivating landscapes of the Ham Luong River unfold before you. Immerse yourself in the unique Mekong Delta lifestyle, visiting fruit orchards, coconut groves, and brick workshops. Pause at a tranquil village, where you can stroll to a local family's home and witness the art of sedge mat weaving. Indulge in tea, tropical fruits, and hop onto a motorized rickshaw called "Xe Loi," or pedal through picturesque villages on a bicycle. Relish a delightful and satisfying lunch at a riverside restaurant. Next, embark on a serene sampan journey along narrow canals. Your boat awaits at the nearby pier to return you to Ben Tre, where your car will transport you back to Saigon. Meals: Breakfast, Lunch Accommodation: Liberty Central Saigon Riverside Hotel (4 stars) or similar

<span> Day 4 </span>Ho Chi Minh City - Danang - Hoi An

After breakfast, we bid farewell as you take a flight to Danang. Upon arrival, our local guide will warmly receive you and transfer you to the enchanting ancient town of Hoi An. Embark on a captivating half-day walking tour, meandering through the winding streets with delightful stopovers at attractions such as Chua Ong Pagoda, the Chinese Assembly Hall, the Tam Ky ancestral house (200 years old), and the iconic Japanese Bridge. Conclude today's tour with a tranquil boat experience on the river, allowing you to unwind and soak in the ambiance. Meal: Breakfast Accommodation: Little Beach A Boutique Hotel & Spa (4 stars) or similar

<span> Day 5 </span>Hoi An - Danang - Hue

Begin your day with a scenic drive from Hoi An to Hue in a private car, passing through the picturesque Hai Van Pass. Take a moment to appreciate the beauty of Lang Co Beach before continuing your journey to Hue. In the afternoon, embark on a leisurely walk through the town, exploring notable attractions such as the Imperial City (The Citadel), Hue Royal Palace, and the Mausoleum of Tu Duc. Meal: Breakfast Accommodation: Moonlight Hotel (4 stars) or similar

Start your day with a serene private boat cruise down the river, making a stop at the iconic Thien Mu Pagoda. Afterwards, immerse yourself in the vibrant atmosphere of Dong Ba Market and marvel at the ornate Minh Mang's tomb. In the afternoon, board a flight to Hanoi, where our guide will greet you at the airport and transfer you to your hotel for check-in. Meal: Breakfast Accommodation: Hanoi La Siesta Hotel & Spa (4 stars) or similar

Immerse yourself in the ancient charm of Hanoi during a full day of exploration. Begin at Ba Dinh Square, where you'll visit significant landmarks such as Ho Chi Minh's Mausoleum, the stilt house, the One Pillar Pagoda, and the Presidential Palace. Continue to the serene West Lake area for a brief visit to Tran Quoc Pagoda and Quan Thanh Temple. In the afternoon, delve into the city's rich history with a visit to the Temple of Literature and the choice between the History Museum or the Ethnology Museum. Conclude the day with a captivating Water Puppet Performance near Hoan Kiem Lake. Meal: Breakfast Accommodation: Hanoi La Siesta Hotel & Spa (4 stars) or similar

Meet your guide and driver at the hotel lobby and embark on a scenic 3-3.5-hour drive to the enchanting UNESCO World Heritage Site, Halong Bay. Upon arrival, board your cruise ship and savor a delicious lunch as you sail into the mystical bay. Take an excursion to explore one of the impressive limestone caves, adorned with countless stalactites and stalagmites. Enjoy an overnight stay on the cruise. Meals: Breakfast, Lunch & Dinner Accommodation: Signature Cruise (4 stars) or similar

<span> Day 9 </span>Halong Bay - Hanoi - Departure

Awake to the enchanting scenery of Halong Bay and consider joining a Tai Chi session on the top deck. Savor a cup of coffee or tea as you immerse yourself in the tranquility of the bay. Embark on a rowboat excursion to explore the nearby islands, taking in the natural wonders that surround you. Return to the junk for a delightful brunch. Upon arrival at the dock, your guide and driver will be waiting to transfer you to Noi Bai International Airport for your departure flight. Your memorable journey through Vietnam concludes here. Meals: Brunch

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

Ho Chi Minh City, Ben Tre, Da Nang, Hoi An, Hue, Hanoi, Halong Bay

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: €741

4-star hotels

4.8 (65 Reviews)

Vietnam Essence & Gourmet Tour 9 Days

About this tour

Highlights

Included/Excluded

Itinerary

Day 1 Arrival in Ho Chi Minh City

Day 2 Ho Chi Minh City

Day 3 Ho Chi Minh City - Ben Tre - Ho Chi Minh City

Day 4 Ho Chi Minh City - Danang - Hoi An

Day 5 Hoi An - Danang - Hue

Day 6 Hue - Hanoi

Day 7 Hanoi

Day 8 Hanoi - Halong Bay

Day 9 Halong Bay - Hanoi - Departure

Durations

Regional Tours

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Tour's Location

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