Vietnam: Historic Cities & Halong Bay Cruising 12 Days

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Duration

10 days

Tour Type

Specific Tour

Group Size

Unlimited

Languages

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About this tour

Embark on a journey through Vietnam that is tailor-made for young explorers looking for an affordable and immersive travel experience. Discover the charming coastal city of Nha Trang on a street food tour, where you’ll savor local delicacies and soak up the vibrant atmosphere. Then, set sail for the stunning Ha Long Bay, where turquoise waters and towering limestone cliffs create a picturesque backdrop for your adventure.

In bustling Hanoi, you’ll have the freedom to explore at your own pace, with plenty of opportunities to immerse yourself in the local culture and discover hidden gems off the beaten path. Whether you’re visiting museums and historical landmarks, shopping in local markets, or simply strolling through the city streets, you’ll have countless chances to create unforgettable memories and take home incredible stories to share with family and friends.

With a mix of curated highlights and the freedom to explore on your own terms, this tour is the perfect introduction to Southeast Asia and a once-in-a-lifetime adventure you’ll always cherish.

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

Welcome to Ho Chi Minh City, a vibrant metropolis known for its bustling streets, rich culture, and delicious cuisine. Upon your arrival, take some time to settle in and get ready for an exciting adventure. In the evening, join your CEO and fellow travelers to explore the lively Pham Ngu Lao Street. This bustling area is home to many bars and backpackers, offering a great opportunity to mingle with locals and other travelers. Choose a spot that catches your eye and raise a glass to new experiences! Accommodation: Phan Anh Backpackers Hostel (or similar). Included Activities: Welcome Meeting - Meet Your CEO and Group Connect With New Friends Additional Notes: Please note that most nationalities require a visa to enter Vietnam. We recommend checking with your travel agent or the local Vietnamese Embassy for up-to-date information on visa requirements.

<span> Day 2 </span>Ho Chi Minh City to Nha Trang (1B)

Experience the vibrant energy of Ho Chi Minh City on a CEO-led orientation walk and then venture out on your own to explore the bustling metropolis. Indulge in some retail therapy, soak up the local culture, or simply wander the streets and take in the city's unique atmosphere. Later, board an overnight train to Nha Trang and catch up on some rest. As you travel towards your next destination, drift off to sleep while dreaming of the stunning beaches and turquoise waters that await you in Nha Trang. Meals Included: Breakfast Transport: Basic Overnight Train (beds) 10:00 - 11:00 Hr(s) Included Activities: Guided Orientation Walk Additional Notes: Please note that during the months of January and February, Táº¿t (the Vietnamese Lunar New Year) is celebrated and millions of Vietnamese people travel to be with their families. While this is an exciting time to visit Vietnam, transportation availability may require us to substitute the overnight train with an overnight bus.

Welcome to the eastern coast! After your arrival, take some time to wander through the colorful local shops and markets, soak in a rejuvenating mud bath, unwind on the sandy beach, or explore nearby historical sites before embarking on an evening street food adventure. Accommodation: Bondi Backpackers Nha Trang (or similar). Included Activities: Nha Trang Street Food Exploration

<span> Day 4 </span>Nha Trang to Da Nang (1B)

Don't rush out of paradise just yet. You still have a whole day to discover the hidden gems of Nha Trang. Whether it's lounging on the powdery beach, venturing to historical landmarks, or getting lost in the vibrant markets, the choice is yours. As the sun sets, you'll take an overnight train to Hoi An, but not before a quick stopover in Da Nang. Meals Included: Breakfast Transport: Basic Overnight Train (beds) 09:00 - 10:00 Hr(s)

Welcome to Hoi An - a charming port town with strong Chinese influence and a rich trading history. After a short transfer from Da Nang, join a guided orientation walk to get your bearings and explore the town's unique character. In the afternoon, the day is yours to indulge in any of the following activities: take a cooking class, cycle to the beach, visit a tailor, or simply wander the old town's picturesque streets. Later in the evening, join your group for a memorable night out, as we treat you to a complimentary drink to toast to your amazing adventures so far. Get ready to dance the night away and create unforgettable memories! Accommodation: Hoi An Paradise Hostel (or similar) Transport: Private Vehicle: Da Nang to Hoi An (45 minutes) Included Activities: Hoi An Orientation Walk Reminisce Riverside

You'll have the opportunity to not only enjoy noodles but also make them! Visit Oodles of Noodles, which is supported by G Adventures, and discover the secrets of noodle-making. The rest of the day is yours to explore Hoi An. Consider taking a trip to My Son, an ancient ruin that has been designated a UNESCO World Heritage site, or take a leisurely cruise down the Thu Bon River. Accommodation: Hoi An Paradise Hostel (or similar). Meals Included: Breakfast Lunch Included Activities: Oodles of Noodles visit.

Get ready for an exciting journey to Hue's Imperial City. There's so much to see and do here, you'll be spoiled for choice. Visit the Royal Citadel and the ancient tombs, or take a relaxing cruise along the Perfume River. If you're feeling adventurous, why not rent a motorbike and explore the city like a local? You can pre-book the "Hue Motorbike Tour" on the checkout page to add some speed to your adventure. Accommodation: DMZ Hostel (or similar) Meals Included: Breakfast Transport: Private Vehicle (approx. 4 hours) Optional Extras: Hue Motorbike Tour

Today, you have another day to explore the fascinating city of Hue at your own pace. In the afternoon, embark on a scenic journey through the breathtaking Vietnamese countryside to the magnificent Phong Nha-Káº» BÃ ng National Park, known for its verdant rocky peaks and lush greenery. Accommodation: Sai Gon Phong Nha Hotel (or similar). Meals Included: Breakfast Transport: Private Vehicle 4 hours.

<span> Day 9 </span> Phong Nha to Hanoi (1B)

Take the opportunity to discover the awe-inspiring caves of Phong Nha-Káº» BÃ ng National Park, home to the oldest karst mountains and longest cave in Asia. Descend underground to explore this natural wonder. Later, board an overnight train to Hanoi. Meals Included: Breakfast Transport: Basic Overnight Train (beds) Optional Extras: Full-day Caving in Phong Nha adventure: Explore the longest cave in Asia, the Paradise Cave, with massive stalactites, enjoy a sumptuous Vietnamese lunch, and take a boat ride to the turquoise beach of Phong Nha Cave. Additional Notes: Pre-book the Caving in Phong Nha adventure to secure your spot.

<span> Day 10 </span>Hanoi/Ha Long (1B, 1L)

Arrive in the bustling capital of Vietnam, Hanoi, and embark on a private bus to the iconic Halong Bay. Enjoy a seafood lunch cruise and explore the caves while taking in the magnificent scenery. Don't forget to charge your camera so you can capture and share the awe-inspiring moments! Accommodation: Halong Centrica Hotel (or similar). Meals Included: Breakfast Lunch Transport: Private Vehicle: Hanoi to Ha Long 04:00 Hr(s) Included Activities: Junk Boat Trip in Háº¡ Long Bay.

Take a step back in time as you stroll through Hanoi's charming Old Quarter on an orientation walk. Stop by Bia Hoi Corner for a refreshing drink of bia hoi, a locally brewed beer made from rice and wheat, and at only $0.25USD per glass, it's an affordable treat. For those interested in local cuisine, you can choose to pre-book the "Hanoi Foodie Culture Tour" activity during the checkout process to include this optional experience on your tour. Accommodation: Bonne Nuit Hotel (or similar). Meals Included: Breakfast Transport: Private Vehicle 04:00 Hr(s) Included Activities: Old Quarter Orientation Walk Optional Extras: Hanoi Foodie Culture Tour

It's the final day of your tour, and time to bid farewell to your fellow travelers. Take the opportunity to snap some final photos and exchange contact information before you embark on your next adventure. Meals Included: Breakfast Included Activities: Departure Day

Durations

9 - 12 days

Regional Tours

Vietnam

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

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PRIVATE CUSTOMISED TRIP

Tour's Location

Ho Chi Minh City, Nha Trang, Da Nang, Hoi An, Hue, Phong Nha-Kẻ Bàng National Park, 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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4.9 (73 Reviews)

Vietnam: Historic Cities & Halong Bay Cruising 12 Days

About this tour

Highlights

Included/Excluded

Itinerary

Day 1Ho Chi Minh City

Day 2 Ho Chi Minh City to Nha Trang (1B)

Day 3 Nha Trang

Day 4 Nha Trang to Da Nang (1B)

Day 5 Da Nang/Hoi An

Day 6 Hoi An (1B, 1L)

Day 7 Hoi An to Hue (1B)

Day 8 Hue/Phong Nha (1B)

Day 9 Phong Nha to Hanoi (1B)

Day 10 Hanoi/Ha Long (1B, 1L)

Day 11 Ha Long/Hanoi (1B)

Day 12 Hanoi (1B)

Durations

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