Vietnam Express Northbound 10 Days

From: $600 4-star hotels

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Duration

10 Days

Tour Type

Daily Tour

Group Size

Unlimited

Languages

English

About this tour

Ho Chi Minh City, Hoi An, Hue, Hanoi, Halong Bay

Commence your journey in Ho Chi Minh City and conclude it in Hanoi! Embark on the dynamic Vietnam Express Northbound, a 10-day tour package that guides you through Ho Chi Minh City, Vietnam, and four other captivating destinations in the country. This experience encompasses accommodations in hotels, the expertise of a knowledgeable guide, meals, transportation, and more.

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

Hello! Welcome to Vietnam. Your journey commences with an introductory meeting at 6 pm. Since this itinerary doesn't allocate much time for exploring Ho Chi Minh City, consider arriving a day or two earlier to explore the attractions. We can gladly arrange additional accommodation for you (subject to availability). Ho Chi Minh City boasts a vibrant atmosphere with a touch of French influence. You might want to explore Pham Ngu Lao Street, visit Vinh Nghiem Pagoda, or opt for an Urban Adventure with a local expert guide. Following the meeting, why not bond with your fellow travelers and savor the diverse flavors of Vietnamese cuisine during an optional group dinner?

Accommodation: Hotel

<span> Day 2</span> Mekong Delta - Ho Chi Minh City

Today, you will head south using a private minibus (approximately 3 hours) to explore the Mekong Delta. Upon arrival, embark on a private boat and navigate the intricate waterways, immersing yourself in the serene surroundings of this fertile region often referred to as the 'rice bowl of Vietnam.' Disembark at Ben Tre, visit coconut gardens, and pause at a local home to taste tropical fruits and coconut jams before enjoying a paddling experience in sampans (small rowing boats). Explore the villages on a tuk-tuk tour, gaining insights into rural life and local livelihoods. Indulge in a delicious lunch at a delta-centric restaurant, savoring regional specialties like the renowned elephant ear fish. Conclude the day with a boat cruise along the major waterways of the delta to Ben Tre boat pier. After the cruise, return to Ho Chi Minh City by bus.

Accommodation: Hotel

This morning, bid farewell to Ho Chi Minh City and take a flight north to Danang (approximately 1 hour 30 minutes). Upon arrival, embark on a 45-minute bus journey to Hoi An, with the breathtaking peaks of the Marble Mountains providing a stunning backdrop. Once in Hoi An, your guide will lead you on a walking tour of this distinctive town, shaped by the cultural influences of Europe, China, and Vietnam over the years. A significant trading port since the 17th century, the town's architecture reflects diverse external influences, featuring pagodas and assembly halls scattered throughout. Despite its modest size, Hoi An exudes both vibrancy and tranquility. The tour will guide you through the streets undergoing restoration, offering a glimpse into the town's appearance over a century ago. As you traverse these historical streets with low-tiled buildings, you'll encounter a notable trader's former residence, the Japanese Covered Bridge, a Chinese assembly hall, and a museum.

Accommodation: Hotel

Indulge in a leisurely day in the UNESCO-listed Hoi An. Explore the Central Market and peruse the vibrant street stalls offering an array of artworks, woodcraft, ceramics, lanterns, and more. Hoi An is renowned for its skilled tailors, capable of crafting exquisite items tailored to your preferences within a short timeframe. For the more adventurous, consider renting a bicycle to explore the picturesque surrounding countryside – an excellent way to gain insights into rural Vietnam. Additional optional activities include a day excursion to My Son Cham, an intricately designed World Heritage-listed temple reflecting the cultural richness of the Cham civilization, a scenic cruise along the Thu Bon River, or a visit to the nearby Cua Dai Beach.

Accommodation: Hotel

Depart from Hoi An today and traverse the captivating Hai Van Pass, a route that, while occasionally rugged, offers breathtaking panoramas overlooking Lang Co Beach. Pause for a quick photo break along the way before continuing your journey to Hue, the former imperial capital of Vietnam (approximately 5 hours, including stops). Hue harbors the riches of Vietnam's royal history and boasts a compelling mix of lively streets and serene surroundings. Join your guide for an exploration of the Imperial Citadel, encompassing the Imperial City and the Forbidden Purple City within. This iconic site was heavily damaged during the Vietnam/American War, and the remnants and craters from bombs serve as poignant reminders of the devastation caused. During your free time, consider a visit to Dong Ba Market, where you can find locally crafted items, fresh produce, and enticing street delicacies.

Accommodation: Hotel

<span> Day 6</span> Hue - Overnight Train

Embark on today's journey with a unique motorbike adventure. You will be accompanied by your personal driver, who will guide you through a scenic drive around the Imperial Citadel and then to the Thien Mu Pagoda, an unofficial emblem of Hue with origins dating back to 1601. This active Buddhist monastery holds historical significance, as evidenced by the car left by a monk who self-immolated in protest against the mistreatment of Buddhists by the South Vietnamese regime. Following this, ride to a special lunch venue at a convent or Buddhist monastery, indulging in a delectable vegetarian feast. Continue your motorbike exploration to the royal tomb of Emperor Tu Duc, situated amidst a serene landscape of a lake, frangipani bushes, and pine trees. As the day concludes, board an overnight train to Hanoi (approximately 12 hours).

Accommodation: Overnight sleeper train

Upon early morning arrival in Hanoi, proceed to your hotel for check-in. Renowned for its picturesque lakes, tree-lined boulevards, public gardens, and the captivating Old Quarter, Vietnam's capital, Hanoi, offers a blend of modernity with its emerging cityscape, ancient Buddhist temples, and a maze of historic streets. Later in the day, embark on a guided walking tour that includes notable landmarks such as Ho Chi Minh's former stilt house and the Temple of Literature. During your leisure time, consider exploring the '36 Streets' in the historic Old Quarter, strolling around the serene Hoan Kiem Lake, or visiting the Fine Arts Museum—an institution dedicated to preserving and showcasing the cultural richness of Vietnam's diverse ethnic communities.

Accommodation: Hotel

Embark on a private minibus journey to the breathtaking Halong Bay, a UNESCO World Heritage site renowned for its pristine beauty (approximately 4 hours). The bay features emerald waters adorned with limestone islands and captivating caves. A cruise awaits to take you on an exploration of Surprise Cave and the mesmerizing rock formations. During the warmer months, you can engage in kayaking or take a refreshing swim near Ti Top Island. Access to Surprise Cave involves navigating staircases, and inside, the pathways may be a bit uneven and slippery. Onboard the ship, relish your meals in the dining room and bar, including delectable fresh seafood for both lunch and dinner. Spend the night beneath a starlit sky on the boat.

Accommodation: Overnight boat

Bid farewell to the enchanting landscapes of Halong Bay and journey back to Hanoi by bus (approximately 3.5 hours). Arriving in Hanoi later in the afternoon, you'll have some leisure time to explore the city's attractions or indulge in last-minute shopping. Alternatively, you can unwind at a café or savor a bia hoi (freshly brewed draught beer) at one of the quaint microbars in the Old Quarter. The evening culminates in a group farewell dinner at KOTO restaurant, an establishment dedicated to empowering underprivileged youth through hospitality industry careers.

Accommodation: Hotel

Conclude your Vietnamese journey today. While there are no scheduled activities on the last day, you may opt to extend your adventure with a short tour, such as the 'Hanoi Street Food by Night' or 'Village Discovery by Bike' offered by our partners, Urban Adventures (visit urbanadventures.com for more details). Alternatively, you might want to explore the Hoa Lo Prison, also known as the 'Hanoi Hilton,' historically used for prisoners of war during the Vietnam War. Another intriguing option is a visit to the Museum of Ethnology, showcasing captivating indoor and outdoor exhibits. If you wish to extend your stay, feel free to inquire about additional accommodation (subject to availability) at the time of booking.

Durations

9 - 12 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

Ho Chi Minh City, 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: $600

4-star hotels

5 (110 Reviews)

Vietnam Express Northbound 10 Days

About this tour

Included/Excluded

Itinerary

Day 1 Ho Chi Minh City

Day 2 Mekong Delta - Ho Chi Minh City

Day 3 Hoi An

Day 4 Hoi An

Day 5 Hue

Day 6 Hue - Overnight Train

Day 7 Hanoi

Day 8 Halong Bay

Day 9 Hanoi

Day 10 Hanoi

Durations

Languages

Regional Tours

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Tour's Location

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