Vietnam Flavors Experience & Beach Relax 11 Days -

From: €563 4-star hotels

4.9

(108 reviews)

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Duration

11 Days

Tour Type

Daily Tour

Group Size

Unlimited

Languages

English

About this tour

Hanoi – Halong Bay – Da Nang – Hoi An – Ho Chi Minh City – Phu Quoc

Embarking on our 11-day Vietnam Flavors Experience & Beach Relax tour presents an incredible chance for a private group eager to explore diverse cuisines. Beyond participating in Vietnamese cooking classes, you’ll also discover iconic tourist spots and historical landmarks, each offering distinct and captivating experiences that unveil Vietnam’s rich history. Following days filled with exploration, the tour concludes with leisure time, allowing you to unwind and soak up the beauty of a stunning beach. Let’s commence this journey through Vietnam, crafting unforgettable memories that will endure a lifetime!

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

Upon Arrival:

Upon arrival in Hanoi, proceed directly to the hotel for check-in and relaxation.
Afternoon:

Check-in time is at 14:00. Early check-in may incur an additional fee.
Enjoy leisure time to unwind or explore the city at your own pace. Alternatively, we offer optional activities:
Water Puppet Show: Immerse yourself in Vietnam's cultural legacy with captivating water puppet performances, narrating tales of history and legends on the water's surface.
Vietnamese Cooking Class or Foodie Tours: Delve into the culinary delights of Hanoi's Old Quarter with either a food tour or an engaging cooking class.
If any of these services pique your interest, please contact our travel agent for further details.
Note: Please gather at Pole No.10 (Outside the Terminal Gate) to connect with our representatives.

Accommodation: Hanoi Hotel

<span> Day 2</span> Hanoi City Tour by Mortobike

Morning:

Embark on the Hanoi City Tour, immersing yourself in the city's rich cultural tapestry:
Experience the iconic Egg Coffee, a must-try for coffee enthusiasts and non-coffee drinkers alike.
Explore the landmarks like Long Bien Bridge/Chuong Duong Bridge, each offering picturesque views and excellent photo opportunities.
Visit Nha Hat Lon (Hanoi Opera House), an architectural marvel constructed during the early 20th century under French governance.
Discover Ho Guom (Hoan Kiem Lake), a serene and picturesque lake nestled in the heart of the old quarter.
Witness Nha Tho Lon (St. Joseph's Cathedral), a stunning Roman Catholic cathedral that echoes the design of Notre Dame de Paris.
Explore Hoa Lo Prison, once used for holding political prisoners during French colonial rule.
Encounter the expansive Ho Tay (West Lake), boasting historical sites, trendy restaurants, cafes, and vibrant nightlife venues along its shoreline.
Visit Tran Quoc Pagoda, dating back to the sixth century, claimed as Vietnam's oldest religious structure, situated on an island in West Lake.
Explore Huu Tiep Lake and The B52, a significant historical site showcasing Vietnam's victory during the Vietnam War, providing insights into local daily life at a nearby market.
Pay respects at the Ho Chi Minh Mausoleum, a revered site preserving Ho Chi Minh's remains.
Conclude your sightseeing with an authentic Vietnamese lunch in the Old Quarter.
Return to your hotel after the tour.
Note: The above itinerary may be altered based on daily weather and traffic conditions.

Accommodation: Hotel in Hanoi

<span> Day 3</span> Hanoi - Ha Long Bay - Overnight on Cruise

Morning:

Embark on a 2-day, 1-night cruise tour to Ha Long Bay, an exceptional UNESCO World Heritage Site renowned for its breathtaking natural allure.
Noon:

Receive a warm welcome aboard the boat by the crew, accompanied by a refreshing welcome drink.
Marvel at the mesmerizing sight of thousands of limestone islands and caves emerging from the crystalline waters.
Indulge in a delectable seafood feast served onboard during the sightseeing.
Afternoon:

Engage in various activities such as cave exploration, kayaking, or sea swimming (depending on the cruise itinerary).
Return to the junk for relaxation and leisure.
Evening:

Delight in a flavorsome dinner onboard.
Spend the night on the luxurious cruise. Take part in diverse nighttime activities like squid fishing or card games.

Accommodation: Halong Bay Cruise

<span> Day 4</span> Ha Long Bay - Hanoi - Fly to Da Nang - Hoi An

Morning:

Engage in Tai-chi sessions during the early hours.
Savor your breakfast while the cruise guides you through several breathtaking bay caves for a final sightseeing tour.
Noon:

Return to the main dock for the transfer back to Hanoi. Enjoy a brunch meal served on the journey.
Proceed to Noi Bai airport for your flight to Da Nang.
Afternoon:

Arrive at Da Nang airport.
Our tour guide will accompany you to the hotel in Hoi An for check-in and an overnight stay.

Accommodation: Hotel in Hoi An

<span> Day 5</span> Hoi An Cooking Class and Walking City Tour full day

Morning:

Commence your day at 8:15 at Hai Scout Cafe, the designated meeting spot. While enjoying coffee, take in the vibrant colors of Hoi An's bustling primary market.

Embark on a 25-minute cruise along Hoi An River to the Red Bridge Cooking School. Explore the herb and vegetable garden, gaining insights into Hoi An and Vietnam's renowned cuisine.

Indulge in a selection of highlighted dishes including:

Fresh Rice Paper: Rice paper filled with vegetables, meat, or seafood.
Fresh Rice Paper Rolls with Shrimp: Rice paper rolls stuffed with shrimp.
Crispy Hoi An Pancakes with Shrimp, Herbs & Peanut Sauce: Pancakes filled with pork, bean sprouts, and more.
Seafood Salad with Assorted Vietnamese Herbs served in a Half Pineapple: A signature Hoi An salad.
Mi Quang Chicken Noodles: Turmeric-tinted noodles with chicken and fresh herbs.
Noon:

Relish a lunch feast featuring the dishes you've prepared, concluding around 12:30.
Return to central Hoi An, reaching approximately by 13:00.
Afternoon:

Stroll through historic neighborhoods and past significant sites.
Explore the local routines, witnessing the blend of history and modernity.
Visit ancient monuments such as the Japanese Covered Bridge or the Fujian Assembly Hall.
Quench your thirst and savor authentic Hoi An flavors with a street-side herbal drink.
Drop by a handicraft store, observing the creation of unique souvenirs and having the chance to purchase some.

Accommodation: Hotel in Hoi An

<span> Day 6</span> Hoi An, Da Nang - fly to Ho Chi Minh City

Morning:

Proceed to Da Nang Airport for a flight to Ho Chi Minh City.
Upon arrival at Tan Son Nhat International Airport, our designated driver will be ready to escort you to the centrally located hotel.
Check-in and relish the freedom to explore the city at your leisure.

Accommodation: Hotel in Ho Chi Minh City

<span> Day 7</span> Full day Cooking Class with Ho Chi Minh City tour

Morning:

Commence your tour at 7:30 and reach HCM Agricultural Villages by 8:30.
*) Explore HCM Agricultural Villages from 8:30 to 10:00:

Tour various sections featuring cow, buffalo, fish, prawn, chicken, and duck habitats.
Engage in activities at the Big Herbs, Spices, Vegetables, and Mushrooms areas, donning a traditional Vietnamese farmer's hat to immerse yourself in the garden.
*) Culinary Challenges from 10:00 to 13:30:

Participate in a hands-on cooking class crafting three dishes and one dessert, followed by relishing these delicacies.
Receive certificates, recipes, and souvenirs.
Share emails for monthly recipe updates.
*) Discover Cho Lon Market, Chinatown from 13:30 to 15:00:

Experience authentic Chinese restaurants and captivating examples of classical Chinese architecture at Cholon Market.
Explore the Great Temple.
*) Explore the War Remnants Museum from 15:00 to 16:30:

The War Remnants Museum stands as a memorial gallery, "Requiem," honoring the journalists and photographers who lost their lives during the Vietnam War.
*) Visit Notre Dame Cathedral and the Central Post Office from 16:30 to 17:15:

Notre Dame Cathedral was built using materials imported from France. The Central Post Office, a remarkable example of French architecture, stands as Vietnam's largest post office.
Return to the hotel by 17:30.

Accommodation: Hotel in Ho Chi Minh City

<span> Day 8</span> Ho Chi Minh City to Phu Quoc

Morning:

Enjoy leisure time until your scheduled transfer to the airport for your flight to Phu Quoc.
Upon arrival at Phu Quoc Airport, our team will assist you in reaching the resort for check-in and relaxation.

Accommodation: Resort in Phu Quoc

<span> Day 9+10</span> Phu Quoc Free day

Morning:

Utilize your leisure time for various activities at your discretion, including swimming, strolling, or snorkeling.
Evening:

Spend the night in Phu Quoc.

Accommodation: Hotel in Phu Quoc

<span> Day 11</span> Phu Quoc fly back to Ho Chi Minh

Morning:

Get ready to depart for the airport to return to Ho Chi Minh City. The tour concludes at this point.

Accommodation: Not Applicable

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 - Da Nang - Hoi An - Ho Chi Minh City - Phu Quoc

Quan Su Pagoda - 🛕 Quan Su Pagoda: The Beating Heart of Buddhism in Hanoi If you’re exploring Hanoi and want to discover not just its bustling streets and famous lakes but also its spiritual soul, then Quan Su Pagoda (Chùa Quán Sứ) is a must-visit. Known as the Ambassadors’ Pagoda, this sacred site is more than just a place of worship—it’s the headquarters of Vietnamese Buddhism and a living, breathing symbol of faith in the capital. Located at 73 Quan Su Street, right in the center of Hanoi near the junction with Tran Hung Dao, this pagoda welcomes thousands of worshippers and curious travelers every month. Whether you’re seeking peace, cultural insights, or simply a break from the city’s traffic, Quan Su offers a rare mix of spirituality, history, and living tradition. 📜 A Journey Through History Quan Su Pagoda has roots stretching back to the 15th century, during the reign of King Le The Tong. It was originally built as part of a guesthouse for Buddhist envoys and ambassadors visiting from neighboring countries such as Laos, Cambodia, and China—hence its name, “Quan Su,” meaning Ambassadors. Though the structure has undergone many renovations, the current building was completed in 1942 and reflects a harmonious blend of Vietnamese traditional architecture with subtle modern touches. Over the centuries, the pagoda has grown from a diplomatic spiritual hub into one of the most important religious sites in Vietnam. 🏮 A Living Pagoda in Modern Hanoi Unlike some temples that feel frozen in time, Quan Su Pagoda is very much alive. Step inside, and you’ll find yourself immersed in a vibrant scene: 🙏 Worship Days – On the 1st and 15th days of the lunar month, the courtyard fills with worshippers offering incense, fruits, and flowers. The atmosphere is both festive and deeply spiritual. 🕯️ Sacred Atmosphere – Inside the main hall, you’ll be greeted by the sight of rows of crimson-lacquered Buddha statues, glowing softly under the dim light of an iron lamp adorned with dragon motifs. 🌳 Peaceful Courtyard – The compound is shaded by ancient trees, creating a tranquil contrast to Hanoi’s bustling streets outside. The air is often thick with the fragrance of burning incense, giving visitors a true sense of Buddhist devotion. For locals, it’s a place of prayer, reflection, and community. For travelers, it’s a window into Vietnamese spirituality. 📚 A Center of Buddhist Learning Quan Su is not just a place for worship—it is also the headquarters of the Central Buddhist Congregation of Vietnam. This makes it the nerve center of Buddhist activities nationwide. At the back of the pagoda, you’ll find: 📖 A Well-Stocked Library – Home to rare Buddhist texts, scriptures, and modern publications. 🏫 Classrooms for Buddhist Studies – Where monks, nuns, and laypeople come to learn about Buddhist philosophy, rituals, and history. 🌏 Cultural & Religious Events – Throughout the year, Quan Su hosts important ceremonies such as Vesak (Buddha’s Birthday), Dharma talks, and international Buddhist exchanges. If you’re visiting during a festival, you may witness large gatherings, chanting rituals, or even cultural performances tied to Buddhist traditions. 🌟 Highlights You Shouldn’t Miss When visiting Quan Su Pagoda in 2025, here are the must-see and must-experience moments: 🪔 The Main Hall (Chính Điện) – Admire the intricate architecture, lacquered statues, and the iconic dragon-carved iron lamp. 🌿 The Courtyard – Take a quiet stroll under ancient trees, a perfect pause in the middle of Hanoi’s busy downtown. 🎐 Incense Offering – Join locals in offering incense. Even if you’re not Buddhist, it’s a respectful way to connect with the atmosphere. 🧘 Meditation Time – In recent years, the pagoda has introduced short meditation sessions for visitors, particularly in the early mornings. 📍 Practical Information for Visitors (Updated 2025) ✨ Address: 73 Quan Su Street, Hoan Kiem District, Hanoi🕕 Opening Hours: Daily from 6:00 AM – 7:00 PM💰 Entrance Fee: Free (donations welcome)⌛ Recommended Duration: 45 minutes – 1.5 hours 👉 Travel Tip 2025: In response to growing international visitors, the pagoda now offers multilingual leaflets in English, French, Japanese, and Korean, making it easier to understand the site’s history and symbolism. 🛵 How to Get There Quan Su Pagoda is centrally located, making it very accessible: 🚶 On Foot: If you’re staying around Hoan Kiem Lake, it’s just a 15-minute walk. 🚖 By Taxi/Grab: A quick ride from anywhere in central Hanoi. 🚲 By Bicycle: Combine your visit with a cycling tour around Hanoi’s Old Quarter and French Quarter. 🛍️ Nearby Attractions Since you’re already in Hanoi’s cultural heart, combine your visit with these nearby highlights: 🏛️ Hoa Lo Prison Museum (5-minute walk) – A sobering look into Vietnam’s colonial and wartime history. ☕ Hidden Cafés on Tran Hung Dao Street – Perfect spots to sip egg coffee after your temple visit. 🎭 Vietnam National Tuong Theatre – Just around the corner, where you can catch traditional opera performances. 🌳 Thống Nhất Park – A green escape if you want more tranquility. 🌸 Visiting Tips for 2025 ✔️ Dress respectfully – Modest clothing (cover shoulders and knees) is recommended.✔️ Avoid peak worship times unless you want to experience the full crowds—early morning is the most peaceful.✔️ Photography – Allowed in most areas, but be mindful during prayer times.✔️ Bring small offerings – Incense, fruits, or flowers are appreciated if you’d like to participate.✔️ Check festival dates – Visiting during Vesak (usually in May) offers a colorful, festive experience. 🌍 Why You Should Visit Quan Su Pagoda In a city filled with famous landmarks—Hoan Kiem Lake, the Old Quarter, and the Temple of Literature—Quan Su stands apart. It’s not just about ancient architecture or history frozen in time. Instead, this pagoda represents Vietnamese Buddhism in motion: alive, active, and deeply integrated into modern life. For locals, it’s a sanctuary of faith. For travelers, it’s a chance to step into a living tradition, where the past and present blend seamlessly. 📝 Final Thoughts Quan Su Pagoda may not have the sprawling size of Hanoi’s other temples or the...Hoa Lo Prison - 🏯 Hoa Lo Prison (The “Hanoi Hilton”): A Journey Through Vietnam’s Past If you’re planning a trip to Hanoi in 2025, chances are Hoa Lo Prison Museum will pop up on your must-visit list. This isn’t just another historical site—it’s one of the most haunting reminders of Vietnam’s turbulent past, layered with stories of colonial rule, war, resilience, and propaganda. Nestled right in the heart of Hanoi at 1 Hoa Lo Street, the prison once stood as a symbol of fear. Today, it’s a museum where visitors can step into history and walk through the cells that once held revolutionaries, intellectuals, and later, American prisoners of war. Let’s dive into its history, what to expect when visiting, and why it’s an essential stop for anyone wanting to understand the depth of Vietnam’s journey. 📖 A Brief History of Hoa Lo Prison Originally built by the French in 1896, Hoa Lo was intended to suppress Vietnamese resistance against colonial rule. The name “Hoa Lo” translates to “fiery furnace” or “stove,” but ironically, the neighborhood was known for ceramic stoves before the prison existed. During the colonial era (1896–1954), it became notorious for housing Vietnamese nationalists and revolutionaries. Overcrowding was extreme: while designed for around 450 prisoners, records show it sometimes held over 2,000. Among its inmates were five future General Secretaries of the Vietnamese Communist Party, men who would later help shape modern Vietnam. After the French departure in 1954, the prison continued to function under the Vietnamese government. By the 1960s and 70s, it took on a new identity—one that would make headlines around the world. ✈️ The “Hanoi Hilton” Era For many Western visitors, Hoa Lo is best known by its infamous nickname: the “Hanoi Hilton.” This was the name sarcastically given by American POWs (mostly pilots and crew) during the Vietnam War. Captured servicemen—including some who later became well-known figures like U.S. Senator John McCain—were detained here. Vietnamese state media at the time portrayed the prison as a place where POWs were well-fed and treated humanely. Television broadcasts showed smiling prisoners, neatly clothed and playing games. However, accounts from veterans after the war revealed starkly different experiences—harsh interrogations, cramped living conditions, and psychological strain. Even today, guides sometimes tell foreign visitors with a straight face, “That’s why it was called the Hanoi Hilton.” The irony, of course, is not lost on those familiar with the history. 🏛️ What You’ll See Inside the Museum Visiting Hoa Lo Prison Museum is an intense, emotional experience. While much of the original complex was demolished in the 1990s to make way for the modern Hanoi Towers, parts of it remain preserved for public education. Here’s what stands out: 🔒 Preserved Prison Cells – Walk through dark, narrow cells where prisoners were once shackled. The claustrophobic atmosphere offers a chilling glimpse into their reality. ⚖️ French Colonial Artifacts – Rusty shackles, leg irons, and even a guillotine remain on display, stark reminders of the brutal colonial justice system. 📸 Historic Photographs – Rooms filled with images and records of famous political prisoners, many of whom later played pivotal roles in Vietnam’s independence. 🎥 POW Exhibits – Displays highlighting the Vietnam War era, though with a heavy dose of propaganda that emphasizes supposed humane treatment of American prisoners. 🕯️ Memorial Spaces – Sections dedicated to honoring the Vietnamese revolutionaries who sacrificed their lives here. 📍 Practical Visitor Information (Updated 2025) ✨ Location: 1 Hoa Lo Street, Hoan Kiem District, Hanoi🕗 Opening Hours: Daily, 8:00 AM – 5:00 PM (last entry at 4:30 PM)🎟️ Ticket Price: 50,000 VND (approx. $2 USD)⌛ Recommended Visit Duration: 1–2 hours 👉 Travel Tip 2025: The museum has recently upgraded its multilingual audio guides (available in English, French, Japanese, and Korean), making it easier for visitors to navigate the complex stories presented. 🛵 Exploring the Surrounding Area After such a heavy experience, you might want a lighter change of pace. Luckily, Hoa Lo is located in a vibrant part of Hanoi: 📚 Publishing Street (Pho Sach Ha Noi) – Just a short walk east, this gentrified street is lined with cozy cafés and bookshops. While most books are in Vietnamese, the peaceful atmosphere is a refreshing break from Hanoi’s traffic chaos. ☕ Hidden Cafés – Nearby, you’ll find small coffee shops serving Vietnam’s famous egg coffee (cà phê trứng)—a sweet treat to decompress after your visit. 🛍️ Trang Tien Plaza & Hoan Kiem Lake – Both within walking distance, perfect for combining history with shopping and sightseeing. 🌍 Why Hoa Lo Prison Should Be on Your Hanoi Itinerary Visiting Hoa Lo isn’t about ticking off another tourist attraction—it’s about connecting with Vietnam’s layered history. It forces you to confront the brutal realities of colonialism and war, while also reflecting on themes of resilience, propaganda, and national identity. Unlike temples or lakes, this is not a place of beauty, but of memory. And in that sense, it adds incredible depth to any trip to Hanoi. ✨ Tips for Visitors in 2025 ✔️ Go early in the morning to avoid crowds and the midday heat.✔️ Take your time in the exhibits—don’t rush, as much of the information is nuanced.✔️ Bring water, but note that food and drinks are not allowed inside.✔️ Be mindful when taking photos—some areas are solemn memorials.✔️ Pair your visit with other nearby cultural sites like the Vietnam National Museum of History or the Temple of Literature for a well-rounded day of exploration. 📝 Final Thoughts Hoa Lo Prison Museum isn’t an easy visit—it’s sobering, sometimes uncomfortable, but always enlightening. Standing inside its walls, you can almost hear the echoes of the past: the voices of revolutionaries who dreamed of independence, and the whispers of captured soldiers who longed for home. In 2025, as Hanoi continues to modernize with skyscrapers, trendy cafés, and bustling nightlife, Hoa Lo remains a stark reminder of where the city has come from. It’s this balance between old and new, tragedy and triumph, that makes Hanoi such a fascinating place to explore. So if...

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From: €563

4-star hotels

4.9 (108 Reviews)

Vietnam Flavors Experience & Beach Relax 11 days

About this tour

Included/Excluded

Itinerary

Day 1 Hanoi Arrival

Day 2 Hanoi City Tour by Mortobike

Day 3 Hanoi - Ha Long Bay - Overnight on Cruise

Day 4 Ha Long Bay - Hanoi - Fly to Da Nang - Hoi An

Day 5 Hoi An Cooking Class and Walking City Tour full day

Day 6 Hoi An, Da Nang - fly to Ho Chi Minh City

Day 7 Full day Cooking Class with Ho Chi Minh City tour

Day 8 Ho Chi Minh City to Phu Quoc

Day 9+10 Phu Quoc Free day

Day 11 Phu Quoc fly back to Ho Chi Minh

Durations

Languages

Regional Tours

For more information or to book this tour, please click the request button below:

Tour's Location

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