Vietnam: Noodles & Nightlife 12 Days

From: $729 4-star hotels

(116 reviews)

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Duration

12 Days

Tour Type

Daily Tour

Group Size

Unlimited

Languages

English

About this tour

Ho Chi Minh City, Nha Trang, Da Nang, Hoi An, Hue, Phong Nha-Kẻ Bàng National Park, Hanoi, Halong Bay

Embark on a journey that begins in Ho Chi Minh City and concludes in Hanoi! The Vietnam: Noodles & Nightlife tour offers a comprehensive 12-day package, guiding you through various destinations in Vietnam. This immersive experience includes accommodations in both hotels and hostels, a knowledgeable guide, delicious 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

Arrive at your convenience and embrace the vibrant atmosphere of Ho Chi Minh City, also recognized as Saigon.

On your initial evening, meander alongside Pham Ngu Lao Street with your CEO and the group, where a plethora of bars and backpacker establishments create a lively ambiance. Select an appealing venue to mingle with fellow travelers and raise a toast to the exciting adventures that lie ahead!
Included Activities:

Meet Your CEO and Group
Connect With New Friends
Additional Notes: Most nationalities need a visa for entry into Vietnam. Kindly consult your travel agent or the local Vietnamese Embassy for specific requirements.

<span> Day 2</span> Ho Chi Minh City/Nha Trang

Experience the energy of Vietnam's largest city during a guided orientation walk led by your CEO. Following the walk, enjoy free time to revisit your favorite spots. Whether you choose to indulge in shopping, immerse yourself in local culture, or simply wander through the streets to absorb the city's unique ambiance, the choice is yours. Later tonight, recharge with a good night's sleep on an overnight train journey to Nha Trang.
Transport:

Basic Overnight Train (beds) 10:00 - 11:00 Hr(s)
Included Activities:

Orientation Walk
Additional Notes: In January/February, the Tết festival (Vietnamese Lunar New Year) attracts millions of Vietnamese who travel to be with their families and partake in celebrations. While this period offers a captivating travel experience, transport availability may necessitate substituting the overnight train with an overnight bus.

You've reached your destination! Welcome to the Eastern Sea. Utilize the morning to discover local shops and markets, indulge in a rejuvenating mud bath, unwind on the beach, or explore nearby historical sites. In the evening, embark on a street food adventure.
Included Activities:

Nha Trang Street Food Crawl

The journey isn't complete just yet. Enjoy additional free time today to delve further into Nha Trang, savoring every moment. Later, board an overnight train bound for Hoi An, making a brief stop in Da Nang for a short transfer.
Transport:

Basic Overnight Train (beds) 09:00 - 10:00 Hr(s)

Departing from Danang, a brief journey leads to the charming port town of Hoi An. Formerly known as Faifo, this town held significant importance as a trading hub with notable influences and connections from southern Chinese culture.
Transport:

Private Vehicle: Da Nang to Hoi An 00:45 Hr(s)
Included Activities:

Hoi An Orientation Walk
Reminisce Riverside

Crafting noodles isn't just a delightful eating experience but an even more enjoyable hands-on activity. Explore the art of noodle making during a visit to Oodles of Noodles, a venture supported by G Adventures. The remainder of the day is at your disposal, offering the opportunity to embark on your own discoveries. Opt to explore the ancient ruins of My Son, designated as a UNESCO World Heritage Site, or take a leisurely cruise down the Thu Bon River.
Included Activities:

Oodles of Noodles

Secure your spot for the exhilarating "Hue Motorbike Tour" by making an advance reservation on the checkout page. This high-speed adventure can be seamlessly integrated into your tour itinerary.
Transport:

Private Vehicle 04:00 Hr(s)
Optional Extras to Consider:

Hue Motorbike Tour

You have another day of leisure to relish Huế on your second day in the city. In the afternoon, journey through the breathtaking Vietnamese countryside to reach the verdant rocky landscapes of Phong Nha-Kẻ Bàng National Park.
Transport:

Private Vehicle 04:00 Hr(s)

Today, consider delving into the subterranean wonders of Phong Nha-Kẻ Bàng National Park, home to the oldest karst mountains and the lengthiest cave in Asia. Following your exploration, embark on an overnight train journey to Hanoi.
Transport:

Basic Overnight Train (beds)
Optional Extras to Consider:

Caving in Phong Nha
Additional Notes: Secure your spot for the full-day Caving in Phong Nha adventure in advance. This expedition offers the chance to explore Asia's longest cave, Paradise Cave, adorned with colossal stalactites. Indulge in a delightful Vietnamese lunch and then sail to the turquoise waters of Phong Nha Cave.

Upon reaching Hanoi, the vibrant capital of Vietnam, hop on a private bus to reach the renowned Halong Bay. Indulge in a seafood lunch cruise and explore the captivating caves. Don't forget to charge your camera to capture a shot that truly encapsulates the experience!

Transport:

Private Vehicle: Hanoi to Ha Long 04:00 Hr(s)
Included Activities:

Hạ Long Bay Junk Boat Trip

If you have a penchant for local cuisine, you may choose to reserve a spot for the "Hanoi Foodie Culture Tour" by completing the pre-booking process on the checkout page. This optional activity can be seamlessly integrated into your tour itinerary.
Transport:

Private Vehicle 04:00 Hr(s)
Included Activities:

Old Quarter Orientation Walk
Optional Extras to Consider:

Hanoi Foodie Culture Tour

Today marks the moment to bid farewell to your newfound group of friends. Take advantage of this time to capture some final memories through last-minute photos and exchange social media information before embarking on your onward journey.
Included Activities:

Departure Day

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, 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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From: $729

4-star hotels

5 (116 Reviews)

Vietnam: Noodles & Nightlife 12 Days

About this tour

Included/Excluded

Itinerary

Day 1 Ho Chi Minh City

Day 2 Ho Chi Minh City/Nha Trang

Day 3 Nha Trang

Day 4 Nha Trang/Da Nang

Day 5 Da Nang/Hoi An

Day 6 Hoi An

Day 7 Hoi An/Huế

Day 8 Huế/Phong Nha

Day 9 Phong Nha/Hanoi

Day 10 Hanoi/Ha Long

Day 11 Ha Long/Hanoi

Day 12 Hanoi

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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