Wonders of Vietnam Tour 15 Days

Morning: Begin your day with a captivating exploration of Ho Chi Minh City. The city center is home to numerous noteworthy attractions. As we make our way, we'll pass by the former American Embassy, now demolished, en route to the Reunification Palace. This iconic building once served as the residence of the Southern Vietnamese President until April 1975. Near the palace, you'll find striking French colonial structures like the Notre Dame Cathedral and the Old Sai Gon Post Office. Our journey continues with visits to the Jade Emperor Pagoda and the War Remnants Museum, which displays a vast collection of images from the infamous conflicts. We conclude the morning with a leisurely stroll through the bustling Ben Thanh Market, where you can find a wide range of goods for sale. Afternoon: In the afternoon, we'll travel approximately 30 kilometers northwest of Ho Chi Minh City to Cu Chi town. The Cu Chi tunnels played a crucial role during the Tet Offensive in 1968 and became legendary during the American War. Stretching over 200 kilometers, this extensive underground network included living areas, weapon factories, field hospitals, command centers, and accommodations. Today, we'll visit an exposition hall and an expanded section of the tunnels to gain insight into the underground life. Additionally, there will be opportunities to experience the nearby rifle range by firing rounds from an AK47 or MK16. Return to Ho Chi Minh City. Overnight in Ho Chi Minh City.

Begin the day with a hotel pickup in Ho Chi Minh City and embark on a journey to My Tho. Upon arrival, visit the enchanting Vinh Trang Pagoda, dating back to the late 19th century. Next, board a sampan boat and cruise along the river, passing by the picturesque Dragon, Unicorn, Phoenix, and Tortoise islands. Make a stop at Unicorn Island, where you can stroll along village paths, admire lush orchards, savor tropical fruits, and enjoy captivating Vietnamese folk music performed by the locals. Visit a fruit plantation and take a small sampan ride through the scenic Thoi Son canal, immersing yourself in the countryside's beauty. Explore a family-owned business and a bee-keeping farm, savoring honey tea and witnessing the coconut candy-making process. Indulge in a delicious lunch at a local restaurant and enjoy some leisure time. In the afternoon, take a cycling tour around Tan Thach village, interacting with the friendly locals and gaining insight into their daily lives in the Mekong Delta. Alternatively, if you prefer relaxation, unwind on hammocks and relish the refreshing breeze. Continue to Can Tho City and spend the night there. Overnight in Can Tho.

Embark on a captivating journey through the Mekong Delta as we leave Can Tho behind. A short drive takes us to Vinh Long, where we hop on a boat for an exhilarating exploration of the Mekong River's tributaries. Along the way, we visit local cottage industries, including rice paper makers and bonsai nurseries, immersing ourselves in the vibrant local culture. Our next destination is the renowned Cai Be floating market, where each boat specializes in selling a specific item, proudly displaying it at the highest point. Pumpkins, pineapples, sugar canes, and more create a colorful spectacle. Afterward, we return to Cai Be Town, where our waiting vehicle takes us back to Ho Chi Minh City. En route, we make stops to admire the splendid Vinh Trang Pagoda and explore the vibrant Chinatown, known as Cho Lon, with its mesmerizing temples and winding alleys. Overnight in Ho Chi Minh City.

After a delightful breakfast at the hotel, you will be transferred to the airport for a short flight to Da Lat, often referred to as the "City of Eternal Spring." Upon arrival, immerse yourself in the refreshing climate as you explore the town and discover its captivating charm. Da Lat's architecture and culture bear the marks of French influence, as it served as a retreat for colonial residents seeking respite from the coastal heat and Saigon's bustling atmosphere. Nestled around a picturesque lake and surrounded by forests, waterfalls, and serene countryside, Da Lat offers a tranquil escape. Overnight in Da Lat.

Today, we embark on a scenic drive through the enchanting pine hills, leading us to the summer residence of Vietnam's last Emperor, Bao Dai. Forced to abdicate in 1945 after World War II, the emperor's mansion houses a captivating collection of Vietnamese treasures. We continue our journey with a visit to the sacred Lam Ty Ni Pagoda and the famous Hang Nga Guesthouse, famously known as the Crazy House due to its whimsical architecture. Exploring the vibrant central market and the historic railway station, we then proceed along winding roads, passing the picturesque Ngoan Muc Pass and the remarkable Po Klong Jarai Cham Towers. These ancient structures bear witness to the fascinating culture and colorful history of the Cham people along the central coast. Overnight in Nha Trang.

Immerse yourself in the beauty of Nha Trang, known for its pristine beaches and picturesque islands. We embark on a boat excursion to explore the stunning coastal islands. Our first stop is the aquarium lake, followed by a visit to Hon Mun Island. Here, you have ample time to indulge in swimming and snorkeling in the crystal-clear turquoise waters or simply relax on the powdery white sand beach. Continuing our thrilling boat journey, we head towards Hon Tam Island, where you can choose from a variety of water sports and enjoy a delicious lunch at a well-regarded restaurant. In the afternoon, we cruise back to Nha Trang Pier and conclude the day with a short city tour. Highlights include the magnificent Ponagar Cham Towers, offering panoramic views of the vibrant fishing port, and the renowned Long Son Pagoda, featuring a colossal Buddha statue. Overnight in Nha Trang.

We embark on a short flight from Nha Trang to Danang, where our next adventure awaits. Upon arrival, our knowledgeable guide greets us and escorts us to the heart of Danang for a captivating visit to the renowned Cham Museum. Formerly the Ecole Francaise d'Extreme Orient, this museum houses a remarkable collection of intricate limestone carvings from the ancient Champa Kingdom. From there, we journey to Hoi An, a charming town that was once a bustling Cham seaport and has since been influenced by a diverse array of traders from around the world. Hoi An offers a plethora of captivating attractions, including the iconic Japanese Covered Bridges, the Pottery Museum, the historic Tamky House, the serene Chua Ong Pagoda, and the vibrant local market. Immerse yourself in the town's tranquil ambiance as we embark on a captivating walking tour, meandering through narrow streets adorned with traditional low-tiled houses and assembly halls that bear witness to Hoi An's rich multicultural heritage. Overnight in Hoi An.

Leaving Hoi An behind, we embark on a scenic journey towards Hue, the former imperial capital of Vietnam from 1802 to 1945. En route, we make captivating stops at Danang Beach and the awe-inspiring Marble Mountains, symbolizing the five elements of the universe. As we ascend the spectacular Hai Van Pass, we are rewarded with breathtaking panoramic vistas that showcase the beauty of Vietnam. We take a refreshing break at Lang Co Beach, where you can indulge in a leisurely swim and unwind by the serene shoreline. Continuing our drive, we arrive in Hue by early afternoon. Our sightseeing adventure begins with a visit to the grand citadel, home to the Imperial City and the Purple Forbidden City. Although heavily damaged during the 1968 Tet Offensive, exploring the ruins of this royal residence remains a fascinating experience. Adjacent to the citadel lies the Hue Imperial Museum, where a captivating collection of bronzes, Chinaware, court robes, and personal belongings of the emperors are on display. Overnight in Hue.

At 8:00 am, our knowledgeable guide and driver will warmly welcome you at your hotel to begin a day of exploration in Hue. We start with a delightful dragon boat ride along the Perfume River, immersing ourselves in the refreshing ambiance of this historic city. Our first stop is the renowned Thien Mu Pagoda, a symbol of Buddhism in Hue. Continuing our journey, we proceed to the Imperial City, also known as the Citadel, which served as the royal residence of the Nguyen Dynasty. Within this majestic complex, you will be captivated by its rich history and breathtaking architecture. Afterward, you have free time to explore Dong Ba Market, a vibrant hub where you can shop for souvenirs while experiencing the local way of life. Lunch will be served at a local restaurant, providing an opportunity to savor the flavors of Hue's cuisine. In the afternoon, we visit two of the most famous Nguyen Emperors' Mausoleums. First, we admire the unique blend of Oriental and Western influences in the Khai Dinh Mausoleum's splendid architecture. Then, we discover the serene Minh Mang Mausoleum, characterized by its traditional style and tranquil atmosphere. We return to Hue city, concluding the tour at your hotel. Overnight in Hue.

Leaving Hue, we embark on a short journey to the airport for our flight to Hanoi on VN1542 (10:25 11:40). Upon arrival at Noi Bai Airport, our friendly guide will meet and transfer you to your hotel. As the capital of Vietnam, Hanoi exudes a stylish and elegant ambiance, blending old-world charm with stunning colonial architecture. The city's numerous lakes and parks create a relaxing atmosphere. We begin our city tour by visiting the Temple of Literature, Vietnam's first university, and the History Museum, which houses a remarkable collection of artifacts depicting the country's rich history. We also pay a visit to the Hilton Prison, where American pilots were captured and held during the Vietnam War (1967-1973), offering valuable insights into the historical context. Continuing our exploration, we visit the Tran Quoc Pagoda and Quan Thanh Temple, both located near the picturesque West Lake. We then proceed to the old quarters and the tranquil Hoan Kiem Lake, adorned with a sacred temple. Here, we have the opportunity to witness an extraordinary water puppet performance at the renowned theater. If time permits, we will take a delightful cyclo ride through the vibrant streets of the bustling old quarter, known for their historic trade specialties. Overnight in Hanoi.

7:30 – 08:30: Our SHUTTLE BUS, accompanied by a tour guide, will pick you up from your hotel. 10:30: Stopover in Hai Duong city to experience exquisite Vietnamese handicrafts. 12:30: Arrival at Tuan Chau Marina Pier (Tuan Chau Island) and embark on the Halong Bay Cruise. Activities include: Welcome drink and cruise briefing by the Cruise Manager. Enjoy a delicious lunch while cruising past captivating islets and Hoa Cuong floating village. Explore Halong Bay, passing by Soi Sim Beach, Coconut Three Island, and reach the area of Surprising Cave. Engage in kayaking, swimming, or climb the mountain for a panoramic view of Halong Bay at Titov Beach. Participate in a fun-filled COOKING CLASS on the sun-deck, learning to make fresh/fried spring rolls and mix fish sauce. Indulge in a sunset party with refreshing fruits and wine. 19:30: Under the mesmerizing night sky, savor a luxurious set-menu dinner featuring a variety of Vietnamese and Asian delicacies. Evening activities include: Join the exciting SQUID FISHING adventure with our skilled crew and enjoy the chef's squid delicacies. Alternatively, unwind and treat yourself to happy-hour drinks at the bar. Overnight on the Cruise.

06:15: Join a revitalizing Tai Chi class on the Sun-deck. 07:15: Enjoy a delightful breakfast with coffee, tea, and freshly baked pastries on board. 08:00: Explore the breathtaking SURPRISING CAVE (Hang Sung Sot), discovered by the French in 1901. This geological wonder, open to tourists since 1936, showcases Halong Bay's remarkable beauty. 09:30: Check out and savor the bay's enchanting scenery while relaxing on the sun-deck or in the restaurant. 10:15: Relish a traditional Vietnamese lunch as we cruise back to the pier. 12:00: Disembark at Tuan Chau Pier. Our car will be ready to pick you up and drive you back to Hanoi. 16:00: Arrive in Hanoi. End of the trip! Overnight in Hanoi.

08:00 - 8:30: We will pick you up from your hotel. Depart for Hoa Lu - Tam Coc. This region is renowned for its limestone karsts, creating a picturesque landscape that is truly unique. Enjoy the scenic beauty along the way. 10:30: Upon arriving in Ninh Binh province, the guide will accompany you to visit Hoa Lu, the Ancient Royal capital of Vietnam. 12:10: Indulge in a delicious lunch at a lovely restaurant before boarding a small boat to explore Tam Coc, known as the "Three Caves." Immerse yourself in the Halong-like views of majestic limestone cliffs, captivating caves, serene streams, and lush rice paddies. 17:00: Depart for Hanoi and return to the city around 19:00. Overnight in Hanoi.

Enjoy some leisure time to unwind or continue your exploration of Hanoi. The tour concludes with your transfer to Noi Bai Airport for your departure.