Tour Code: 5PE3M0D3D1MH
10 Days
Daily Tour
Unlimited
English
Hanoi, Halong Bay, Hue, Hoi An, Ho Chi Minh City, Mekong Delta
Greetings! Welcome to Hanoi! Your journey kicks off with an introduction meeting at 6 pm, followed by a group dinner at KOTO restaurant, an establishment dedicated to empowering disadvantaged youth in the hospitality industry. If you happen to arrive before the tour officially starts, there's a wealth of activities to explore. You might want to consider joining the Hanoi Morning Highlights Urban Adventure, a comprehensive tour led by a local expert guide. This optional excursion includes visits to the Temple of Literature, a traditional tea house, and the Hoa Lo Prison Memorial, concluding at Hoan Kiem Lake. Alternatively, you can leisurely stroll through the Old Quarter, taking in the city's captivating French-colonial architecture.
Embark on a journey by a private minibus to the UNESCO-listed Halong Bay, characterized by sandy coves, enchanting grottoes, and 1600 limestone islands sculpted by centuries of wind and water erosion (approximately 4 hours). Step aboard a private boat to cruise through the bay, exploring Surprise Cave and, in the warmer months, taking a refreshing swim at Ti Top Island Beach. Please note that accessing Surprise Cave involves staircases, and the cave pathways may be a bit uneven and slippery. Conclude the day with an overnight stay on the boat beneath the starlit sky. What better way to bond with your fellow travelers than a classic sleepover in an unforgettable setting?
Accommodation: Overnight boat
Cruise back to Halong Bay by boat. Around midday, journey back to Hanoi by bus, arriving late in the afternoon. Enjoy some leisure time until your overnight train departs for Hue tonight. Don't miss the opportunity to savor a bowl of pho, a local specialty comprising broth, noodles, and meat. Perhaps relax by Hoan Kiem Lake before you board the overnight sleeper train to Hue.
Accommodation: Overnight sleeper train
Arrive in Hue around 11 am and transfer to your hotel. As the former imperial capital of Vietnam, Hue boasts the treasures of the country's royal history. Take advantage of the morning to relax or embark on your explorations. If you opt for the latter (and who wouldn't), the lively Dong Ba Market is an excellent spot to taste some of the specialties once enjoyed by the Nguyen emperors, such as banh khoai (royal rice cake). Later, join the group to explore the war-damaged remnants of the Imperial Citadel—an expansive city within a city housing temples, government buildings, and the emperor's palace.
Accommodation: Hotel
Explore Hoi An's countryside and savor its local delicacies on a bicycle journey. The local cuisine in Hoi An is renowned and relished by visitors as soon as they arrive. In Hoi An, these dishes are widespread and available on every street, representing unique cultural symbols introduced to every tourist. We'll cycle to a local restaurant to indulge in Hoi An's specialty, Cao Lau. Next, we'll pedal through the countryside to Tra Que Village, where you'll discover the art of crafting special "white rose" dumpling cakes with a local family and savor your creations. Continuing the ride to Cam Nam, you'll get to relish Yin and Yang foods like Banh Dap ("cracked or smashed rice pancake") and Che Bap ("corn and coconut sweet soup").
In the afternoon, embark on a visit to My Son Sanctuary—an unmissable experience. Nestled in a picturesque valley and surrounded by towering mountain ranges, My Son earned UNESCO's recognition as a Cultural Heritage site in 1999. Stroll through the remnants of the lost Champa Kingdom dating back to the 3rd century, explore the temples, and unravel the captivating history behind this Hindu sanctuary. Overnight in Hoi An.
This morning, embark on a bus journey winding through coastal rice paddies and the breathtaking Hai Van Pass (approximately 3 hours). Pause for a photo opportunity along the way and then arrive in Hoi An. Recognized as a recent World Heritage site, Hoi An flourished as a prominent international trading port in the 17th, 18th, and 19th centuries. Presently, certain parts of the town maintain the ambiance of bygone eras. Hoi An is renowned as a shopping haven, particularly famous for its myriad of tailors. Upon arrival, your guide will lead you on a walking tour through the Old Town, allowing you to explore some of the city's key attractions. Additionally, you will receive a sightseeing pass for further exploration of selected attractions at your own pace.
Accommodation: Hotel
Proceed to Da Nang International Airport for your flight to Hanoi. Upon arriving at Noi Bai Airport, you'll be greeted and transferred to your hotel. After check-in, savor a delightful lunch before embarking on a city tour.
Ha Noi, adorned with ochre-colored colonial structures, tree-lined boulevards, and picturesque lakes, exudes an undeniable charm. Explore some of Ha Noi’s historic sites, including Van Mieu - Quoc Tu Giam (Temple of Literature), the country's first Imperial school established in 1070 during the reign of King Ly. Additionally, visit Hoan Kiem Lake, Ngoc Son Temple (Jade Mountain Temple), But Tower (Pen Shaped Tower), Dai Nghien (Inkstone Stand), and The Huc Bridge (Wooden Bridge painted in red). Later, experience a cyclo (pedicab) ride through the winding streets of Ha Noi's Old Quarter, where you can immerse yourself in the lively local atmosphere.
Ha Noi boasts a history spanning over a millennium, offering distinct cultural traits compared to other regions in Vietnam. The lifestyle, cuisine, and fashion of Ha Noi residents showcase unique characteristics. Exploring Ha Noi in the morning, as the city comes to life, allows you to relish the vibrant atmosphere. The locals are known for their friendliness and hospitality, adding to the memorable experiences of your Vietnam journey. Overnight in Ha Noi.
Begin your day with a brief morning flight to Ho Chi Minh City, lasting around 1.5 hours. Once recognized as Saigon, this city boasts a captivating history and serves as a key hub for Vietnam's commerce and culture. Upon arrival, embark on a city tour via bus, passing by notable landmarks such as the Reunification Palace, Notre Dame Cathedral, and the Opera House. Make a stop at the War Remnants Museum to delve into the poignant narratives of the two-decade-long Vietnam/American War.
Lodging: Hotel
Embark on a day excursion this morning to discover the wonders of the Mekong Delta. Board a private boat destined for Ben Tre, where you'll explore coconut gardens and visit a local residence to indulge in tropical fruits and coconut jams. Subsequently, glide through the Mekong Delta on sampans, maneuvering past coconut trees. Engage in a tuk-tuk tour of the villages, gaining insights into rural life and the coconut-centric industries, such as the production of brooms and coconut fiber mats. Enjoy a delectable lunch at a Delta-centered restaurant, savoring regional delicacies like the renowned elephant ear fish. Cruise the primary waterways to Ben Tre boat pier, and then return to Ho Chi Minh City by bus. In the evening, consider savoring local specialties as a fitting farewell with your travel companions and guide.
Accommodation: Hotel
No scheduled activities are planned, and you are free to check out of your accommodation at your convenience, adhering to the designated checkout time. Should you wish to extend your stay in Ho Chi Minh City, we can assist in arranging extra accommodation, depending on availability. Feel free to consult your group leader or booking agent for further suggestions or assistance in booking an Urban Adventure if you decide to prolong your visit.
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