Vietnam Express Southbound 10 Days

Tour Code: 5PE3M0D3D1MH

4.9 (114 Reviews)

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

From: $614 4-star hotels

4.9

(114 reviews)

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Duration

10 Days

Tour Type

Daily Tour

Group Size

Unlimited

Languages

English

About this tour

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

Embark on an adventure from Hanoi to Ho Chi Minh City with the Vietnam Express Southbound tour. This 10-day package includes accommodation in hotels, guidance from an expert, meals, transportation, and more, allowing you to explore Hanoi and five other captivating destinations in Vietnam.

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 Indochina Royal 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

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

<span> Day 3</span> Hanoi – Overnight train

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

<span> Day 5</span> Hoi An Foodie tour - My Son Sanctuary

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

<span> Day 7</span> Hoi An - Da Nang - Ha Noi City Tour

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

<span> Day 9</span> Mekong Delta – Ho Chi Minh City

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.

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

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

Vietnam’s Revolutionary Spirit - Exploring Vietnam’s Revolutionary Spirit When you travel through Hanoi, you’ll notice that the city’s history isn’t just preserved in its temples and French villas — it also lives on in its museums. One of the most fascinating places to experience this is at 216 Tran Quang Khai Street, home to what was once the Museum of the Vietnamese Revolution. Today, it forms part of the National Museum of History, focusing on Vietnam’s revolutionary journey — from the earliest anti-colonial movements in the 19th century to the nation’s dramatic transformation after reunification in 1975. This museum is more than a collection of artifacts; it’s a powerful narrative of resilience, patriotism, and hope, told through rare documents, photographs, and stories of the people who shaped modern Vietnam. 🏛️ A Museum with Revolutionary Roots Originally established as the Museum of the Vietnamese Revolution, the site was dedicated to chronicling the struggles of the Vietnamese people against colonial powers and foreign domination. In recent years, the collection was integrated into the larger National Museum of History, giving visitors a complete picture of the nation’s past in one cohesive institution. Walking through its halls in 2025, you’ll find that the displays are thoughtfully curated to guide you through the country’s turning points — from underground resistance newspapers to iconic photographs of revolutionary leaders. 📜 The Story Told Through Documents and Words Unlike other museums that rely heavily on artifacts, this one leans on the power of documents and writing to bring history to life. Clandestine Newspapers 📰 – The earliest whispers of resistance often came through underground publications, secretly printed and distributed despite colonial surveillance. These fragile papers now rest in glass cases, a reminder of the courage it took to spread ideas of freedom. Revolutionary Tracts ✍️ – Many of these were penned by Ho Chi Minh, whose words inspired generations to resist oppression and fight for independence. His essays, pamphlets, and letters remain a central feature of the museum’s collection. Rare Photographs 📸 – The museum proudly displays portraits of Vietnam’s revolutionary heroes. Some of these images cannot be found elsewhere, making the exhibit especially valuable for history enthusiasts. ⚔️ War and Resistance: Key Exhibitions The museum also shines a spotlight on some of the defining battles and wars of Vietnam’s modern history. 🌄 Dien Bien Phu – The Decisive Victory No exhibit about Vietnam’s revolutionary struggle would be complete without a tribute to the Battle of Dien Bien Phu in 1954. This historic victory against French forces marked the end of colonial rule in Indochina and paved the way for the Geneva Accords. The museum presents documents, maps, and photographs that capture the determination of the Vietnamese fighters. 🇻🇳 The War of Independence The displays offer an in-depth look at Vietnam’s long fight for sovereignty, from grassroots resistance groups to organized national movements. Visitors can see how everyday people became part of a collective force determined to reclaim their homeland. 🪖 The American War (Vietnam War) Though the Military History Museum provides more extensive coverage of the Vietnam War, this site still offers a compelling collection. Visitors can explore carefully presented exhibits about the conflict, highlighting both the struggles and the resilience of the Vietnamese people. From propaganda posters to personal items of soldiers, these stories personalize a war that changed the world. 🌟 Why Visit 216 Tran Quang Khai in 2025? Authenticity: Many of the documents and photos are one-of-a-kind, offering perspectives not found in other museums. Emotional Impact: The focus on writings, faces, and personal stories creates a human connection with history. Contextual Learning: When combined with the main History Museum at Trang Tien and the Military History Museum, you gain a well-rounded understanding of Vietnam’s journey. 🕘 Visitor Information (Updated 2025) 📍 Address: 216 Tran Quang Khai Street, Hoan Kiem District, Hanoi🕗 Opening Hours: Daily 8:00 AM – 12:00 PM & 1:30 PM – 5:00 PM (Closed on the first Monday of each month)🎟️ Tickets: Entrance fee required; combined tickets with the National Museum of History are available for convenience.🌐 Official Website: baotanglichsu.vn🚶 Getting There: Just a short walk from the Opera House and Hoan Kiem Lake, making it easy to include in your Hanoi itinerary. 💡 Travel Tips for Visitors Pair Your Visit: Plan to see both 216 Tran Quang Khai and the main History Museum at 1 Trang Tien on the same day. Together, they tell the full story of Vietnam. Allow Enough Time: While smaller than the main site, the depth of the documents and exhibits deserves at least 1–2 hours. Photography: Limited photography may be allowed; check current rules upon entry. Guides & Audio Tours: Hiring a guide or using an audio tour app can provide richer insights, especially if you’re not familiar with Vietnam’s revolutionary figures. Respect the Space: For many locals, these exhibits are not just history but part of their family’s lived experiences. 🌏 Connecting Past and Present Visiting 216 Tran Quang Khai is not simply about studying old documents. It’s about standing in the presence of a nation’s collective memory — of battles fought, sacrifices made, and dreams of independence realized. For travelers in 2025, when Vietnam is thriving as one of Asia’s fastest-growing economies and cultural destinations, the museum is a poignant reminder of how far the country has come. From clandestine newspapers to post-war reconstruction, the exhibits encapsulate the resilience and determination that continue to define Vietnam today. ✨ Final Thoughts If you’re exploring Hanoi and want to go beyond the surface, make time for 216 Tran Quang Khai. It’s not as flashy as the Old Quarter or as glamorous as the Opera House, but it holds something deeper — the soul of Vietnam’s revolutionary journey. Walking through its halls, you’ll encounter not just names and dates but real voices from the past, still echoing with a call for freedom and unity. And that makes this museum one of Hanoi’s most powerful and unforgettable cultural experiences.Hanoi’s National Museum of History - 🏛️ Hanoi’s National Museum of History: A Journey Through Vietnam’s Past If you want to truly understand Vietnam — its struggles, triumphs, and cultural depth — there’s no better place to start than the National Museum of History in Hanoi. Nestled just one block east of the Hanoi Opera House, this museum is not only a treasure trove of artifacts but also a masterpiece of architecture, blending French colonial charm with traditional Vietnamese motifs. In 2025, the museum continues to be one of Hanoi’s must-visit cultural landmarks, offering travelers a chance to step back thousands of years into Vietnam’s past. From prehistoric tools to imperial treasures and wartime relics, every corner tells a story of resilience and creativity. 🏯 Architecture: A Blend of French Elegance and Vietnamese Tradition Before even stepping inside, the building itself demands admiration. Designed in the 1930s by the École Française d’Extrême-Orient, the structure combines the grandeur of a French villa with the curves and rooflines of Vietnamese palatial design — a style often referred to as Neo-Vietnamese architecture. With its ochre-yellow walls, graceful balconies, and tiled roofs, the museum feels like a harmonious fusion of East and West. Even today, photographers and architecture enthusiasts are drawn here, not just for the exhibits but also for the artistry of the building itself. ⏳ A Walk Through Time: The Museum’s Layout The National Museum of History is divided into two main sections: The main building at 1 Trang Tien Street — covering Vietnam’s history up to 1945. The annex across the street at 216 Tran Quang Khai Street — focusing on the post-1945 era, including Vietnam’s struggle for independence and reunification. This division allows visitors to follow Vietnam’s journey step by step, from prehistoric times to the modern nation it has become. 🥁 Ground Floor Highlights: The Bronze Age and Beyond Stepping into the ground floor is like traveling back over 2,000 years to the era of the Dong Son culture (1200–200 BC). This sophisticated Bronze Age civilization thrived in the Red River Delta and left behind remarkable artifacts that continue to astonish historians. 🌟 Must-See Exhibits on the Ground Floor The Ngoc Lu Drum 🥁 – Considered the crown jewel of the collection, this ceremonial bronze drum is adorned with delicate carvings of deer, birds, and musicians. Its craftsmanship demonstrates advanced casting techniques far ahead of its time. Bronze Tools and Utensils ⚒️ – From arrowheads to cooking implements, these everyday objects reveal the ingenuity of early Vietnamese societies. Artifacts from Hanoi’s Imperial Citadel 🏯 – Excavations in recent decades have uncovered treasures from Hanoi’s historic citadel, shedding light on its role as a political and cultural center. 11th-Century Amitabha Buddha 🧘 – A graceful wooden statue reflecting the influence of Buddhism in Vietnam’s medieval era. Celadon Ceramics 🍵 – Exquisite pale-green pottery from the Ly dynasty, admired for its elegance and durability. Bach Dang River Stakes ⚓ – Wooden stakes used in the legendary 13th-century battle, when Vietnamese forces under General Tran Hung Dao defeated Mongol invaders by luring their fleet into a deadly trap. Standing before these relics, you don’t just see artifacts — you feel the spirit of Vietnam’s ancestors who shaped the nation’s identity. 📜 Second Floor Treasures: Dynasties, Art, and Colonial Influences Moving upstairs, the second floor offers a vivid journey through Vietnam’s dynastic golden ages and its encounters with foreign powers. 🌟 Highlights of the Second Floor Le Loi Stele (3 meters tall) 🗿 – This monumental stone slab recounts the life of Le Loi, the national hero who led the resistance against Ming Chinese rule and established the Later Le dynasty (1428–1788). Ceramics Collection 🍶 – An extensive display of intricately painted ceramics, showcasing how Vietnamese artisans perfected techniques over centuries. Nguyen Dynasty Exhibits 👑 – Furniture inlaid with ivory, embroidered silk garments, and ceremonial items once used by emperors inside Hue’s Imperial Citadel. 19th-Century Ink Wash Paintings 🎨 – Evocative depictions of Hue’s imperial court life in the 1890s, capturing the elegance and rituals of Vietnam’s last dynasty. French Colonial Era Relics 🏛️ – Artifacts reflecting Vietnam’s transition during the late 19th and early 20th centuries under French rule, offering insight into cultural exchanges and struggles for identity. This section bridges the past with the dawn of modern Vietnam, revealing how the country endured centuries of outside influence while preserving its cultural soul. 📍 The Annex: Vietnam After 1945 Across the street, the second museum building covers the modern chapter of Vietnam’s history. Here, visitors encounter exhibits from the August Revolution, the First Indochina War, and the Vietnam War (known in Vietnam as the American War). You’ll see military uniforms, personal belongings of revolutionary leaders, propaganda posters, and photographs documenting the nation’s struggle for independence and reunification. It’s a powerful and emotional experience, particularly for visitors seeking to understand Vietnam’s resilience in the 20th century. 🕘 Visitor Information (Updated 2025) 📍 Address: 1 Trang Tien Street, Hoan Kiem District, Hanoi🕗 Opening Hours: Daily 8:00 AM – 12:00 PM & 1:30 PM – 5:00 PM (Closed the first Monday of each month)🎟️ Tickets: Entry fee applies (with additional small fee if bringing a camera). Tickets can now be purchased online via the museum’s official website to skip queues.🌐 Official Website: baotanglichsu.vn 💡 Travel Tips for Visiting in 2025 Best Time to Visit: Mornings are quieter, especially on weekdays. Arrive early to avoid tour groups. Combine With Nearby Attractions: The Opera House, Trang Tien Plaza, and Hoan Kiem Lake are all within walking distance. Bring a Guidebook or Audio Guide: While many exhibits now have English and French explanations, a guidebook or hired guide adds context to the vast collection. Photography: A small fee is required for cameras, but the photos are worth it, especially for the architectural details. Wear Comfortable Shoes: You’ll be on your feet for at least 2–3 hours exploring the two buildings. 📸 Why the Museum is a Must-See in Hanoi Unlike many museums that feel static, the National Museum of History in Hanoi is alive...

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4.9 (114 Reviews)

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About this tour

Included/Excluded

Itinerary

Day 1 Hanoi

Day 2 Halong Bay

Day 3 Hanoi – Overnight train

Day 4 Hue

Day 5 Hoi An Foodie tour - My Son Sanctuary

Day 6 Hoi An

Day 7 Hoi An - Da Nang - Ha Noi City Tour

Day 8 Ho Chi Minh City

Day 9 Mekong Delta – Ho Chi Minh City

Day 10 Ho Chi Minh City

Durations

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Regional Tours

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Tour's Location

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