Classic Vietnam Journey 13 days

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INCLUSIVE

Accommodations inclusive of daily breakfast
English-speaking guides as mentioned in the itinerary
Private car and shared shuttle bus throughout the tour as mentioned in the itinerary
Boat tours and all associated fees
Meals as per the itinerary
All entrance fees to cultural and historical sites
Water, cool drinks during tours

EXCLUSIVE

Domestic & International flight tickets
Visa
Insurance (highly recommended to take your own travel insurance before departure)
Personal expenses
Tips to the guide, driver, or hotel staff
Meals not mentioned in the program
Beverages during meals, unless specified
Optional activities and add-ons
Other items not explicitly mentioned in the inclusions

Full Itinerary
Booking

Day 1: Hanoi Arrival (-)

Arrive at Noi Bai International Airport in Hanoi, greeted by your driver, and transfer to your city-center hotel. Enjoy free time to rest or explore Hanoi’s Old Quarter. Overnight in Hanoi.

Day 2: Hanoi City Tour (Group Tour) (B,L)

Discover the charm of Vietnam’s capital on a full-day Hanoi city tour. Begin with a visit to Tran Quoc Pagoda, the oldest Buddhist temple in Hanoi, beautifully located on the banks of West Lake. Continue to the Ho Chi Minh Complex, where you can see the revered Ho Chi Minh Mausoleum (if open), stroll the Presidential Palace gardens, and admire the iconic One Pillar Pagoda, a symbol of Hanoi’s spirituality.

Next, gain insights into Vietnam’s rich culture at the Vietnam Museum of Ethnology, showcasing the traditions of the country’s 54 ethnic groups (replaced by the Vietnamese Women’s Museum on Mondays).

Enjoy a traditional Vietnamese lunch, then visit the Temple of Literature, Vietnam’s first university and a symbol of learning and Confucian heritage. Conclude your tour at the Hoa Lo Prison Museum, also known as the “Hanoi Hilton,” which tells the story of Vietnam’s history during the French colonial era and the Vietnam War.

Return to your hotel in the late afternoon.
Note: Dress modestly for religious sites. The Ho Chi Minh Mausoleum is closed on Mondays, Fridays, and from June 15 to August 15 (exterior viewing only).
Overnight in Hanoi.

Day 3: Ninh Binh Day Trip – Hoa Lu – Tam Coc – Mua Cave (Group Tour) (B,L)

Depart from the Hanoi Old Quarter between 07:30–08:00 by a comfortable limousine bus for a full-day Ninh Binh tour, often called “Halong Bay on land.” Your first stop is Hoa Lu Ancient Capital, the former political and cultural center of Vietnam in the 10th century. Visit the historic Dinh King Temple and Le King Temple, dedicated to the country’s early rulers.

Enjoy a tasty Vietnamese buffet lunch, then embark on a scenic sampan boat ride along the Ngo Dong River in Tam Coc. Glide through towering limestone cliffs and pass through three natural caves — Hang Ca, Hang Hai, and Hang Ba — while soaking in the tranquil countryside views.

In the afternoon, challenge yourself with a climb of nearly 500 steps to the top of Mua Cave viewpoint. From here, enjoy sweeping panoramic views of rice fields, rivers, and dramatic karst mountains — one of the most iconic photo spots in Ninh Binh.

Return to Hanoi around 20:30, full of unforgettable memories. Overnight in Hanoi.

Day 4: Hanoi – Shared Bus to Halong Bay – Overnight Cruise (Group Tour) (B, L, D)

After breakfast in Hanoi, begin your journey to the spectacular Halong Bay, a UNESCO World Heritage Site and one of Vietnam’s most famous natural wonders. A comfortable shuttle bus will transfer you through the scenic Red River Delta, with its lush rice paddies and charming villages, before arriving at the bay.

Upon arrival, board your Halong Bay overnight cruise and receive a warm welcome drink from the crew. As the boat sets sail into the emerald waters, enjoy a freshly prepared seafood lunch while admiring the dramatic limestone karsts and unique rock formations that make Halong Bay world-renowned.

In the afternoon, take part in exciting activities such as kayaking through hidden lagoons, swimming in crystal-clear waters, or visiting one of the area’s beautiful caves. As the sun sets, relax on the sundeck with a cocktail and soak in the magical scenery. Dinner will be served onboard with a variety of local and international dishes, followed by leisure time to enjoy the tranquil night on the bay. Spend the night in your comfortable cabin, surrounded by the peaceful beauty of Halong Bay.

Day 5: Halong Bay – Return to Hanoi – Flight to Hue (B, L)

Begin your morning with an optional Tai Chi session on the sundeck, a perfect way to embrace the serenity of the bay. After breakfast, continue cruising past more breathtaking limestone islands and hidden caves. Depending on your itinerary, you may visit a floating fishing village or another iconic cave before enjoying a hearty brunch on board.

Late morning, disembark the cruise and return to Hanoi by shuttle bus, reflecting on the unforgettable memories of your Halong Bay overnight tour. From Hanoi, transfer directly to the airport for your short domestic flight to Hue. Upon arrival in Hue, your driver will meet you for a private transfer to your hotel. Enjoy the evening at leisure in this historic city, once the imperial capital of Vietnam. Overnight in Hue.

Day 6: Hue City Tour – Imperial Treasures of Vietnam (Group Tour) (B, L)

Start your day in Hue, the former imperial capital of Vietnam and a UNESCO World Heritage Site, with a guided Hue city tour. Your morning begins with a visit to the Tomb of Emperor Khai Dinh, one of the most unique royal mausoleums in Vietnam. The architecture is an extraordinary blend of traditional Vietnamese design and European Gothic influences, showcasing intricate mosaics and elaborate details that reflect both Eastern and Western styles.

Next, enjoy a delicious traditional Hue lunch, where you can taste signature dishes such as bánh bèo, nem lụi, and cơm hến — specialties that highlight the royal culinary heritage of the city.

In the afternoon, step back in time as you explore the Imperial Citadel of Hue, the historic seat of the Nguyen Dynasty. Highlights of the citadel include the imposing Ngo Mon Gate, the grand Thai Hoa Palace, and the beautifully restored temples and gardens inside the walled fortress. This complex offers a fascinating glimpse into Vietnam’s royal past.

The day continues with a peaceful visit to the iconic Thien Mu Pagoda, perched on a hilltop along the banks of the Perfume River. This seven-story pagoda, one of Hue’s most famous landmarks, offers stunning river views and deep cultural significance. Afterward, return to your hotel and relax for the evening. Overnight in Hue.

Day 7: Scenic Journey from Hue to Hoi An via Danang (B)

After breakfast, check out from your hotel and begin a spectacular drive from Hue to Hoi An, one of the most scenic routes in central Vietnam. Your journey will first take you across the legendary Hai Van Pass, often called the “Ocean Cloud Pass,” offering panoramic views of the mountains meeting the sea. This breathtaking stretch of coastal road is one of the most photographed landscapes in Vietnam.

By late afternoon, arrive in the charming town of Hoi An Ancient Town, another UNESCO World Heritage Site. Check into your hotel and enjoy the rest of the day at leisure. Stroll along lantern-lit streets, browse local markets, or simply relax by the riverside. Overnight in Hoi An.

Day 8: Danang City Tour & Ba Na Hills (Group Tour) (B, L)

Depart Hoi An in the morning for a full-day Danang and Ba Na Hills tour. Visit the towering Lady Buddha statue on Monkey Mountain for panoramic coastal views before exploring the mystical Marble Mountains, with highlights like Huyen Khong and Am Phu Caves.

Enjoy a Vietnamese lunch in Danang, then ride the world-renowned Ba Na Hills Cable Car to the mountaintop. Walk across the iconic Golden Bridge, discover the romantic Le Jardin D’Amour gardens, and visit Linh Ung Pagoda. Explore the charming French Village and have fun at Fantasy Park, one of Asia’s largest indoor amusement parks. On the way back, stop at Danang’s famous Dragon Bridge for photos. Return to Hoi An by evening. Overnight in Hoi An.

Day 9: My Son Sanctuary & Hoi An Walking Tour (Group Tour) (B, L)

Begin with a morning drive to My Son Sanctuary, a UNESCO World Heritage Site of ancient Cham temples surrounded by jungle. Explore the ruins, enjoy a traditional Apsara dance performance, and visit a local home for a hands-on rice paper-making experience.

After lunch, cruise the scenic Thu Bon River back to Hoi An. In the afternoon, explore Hoi An Ancient Town, visiting the Phuc Kien Assembly Hall, the iconic Japanese Covered Bridge, and charming merchant houses. As evening falls, enjoy local specialties and a magical lantern boat ride on the Hoai River before returning to your hotel. Overnight in Hoi An.

Day 10: Hoi An to Ho Chi Minh City (B)

Check out from Hoi An, transfer to Danang Airport, and fly to Ho Chi Minh City. Arrive, transfer to your hotel, and enjoy free time to explore Ho Chi Minh City. Overnight in Ho Chi Minh City.

Day 11: Cu Chi Tunnels & Ho Chi Minh City Tour (Group Tour) (B, L)

Depart Ho Chi Minh City for the legendary Cu Chi Tunnels, an underground network used during the Vietnam War. Crawl through narrow passageways, see hidden bunkers and trapdoors, and learn about the ingenuity of Vietnamese fighters. Optional: try the shooting range ($2.50/bullet). On the way back, stop at a lacquerware workshop to watch skilled artisans at work.

After lunch in Saigon, begin your city tour with key landmarks: the colonial-style Central Post Office, the red-brick Notre Dame Cathedral (exterior), the historic Reunification Palace, and the moving War Remnants Museum. End with an optional stroll through a lively local market before returning to your hotel. Overnight in Ho Chi Minh City.

Day 12: Mekong Delta Day Trip (Group Tour) (B, L)

Travel south to Ben Tre, a peaceful gateway to the Mekong Delta. Cruise along the Mekong River to visit a coconut workshop and a traditional mat-weaving house, then walk through a quiet village to meet locals. Sample fresh tropical fruits, honey tea, and sweet coconut candy before enjoying a riverside lunch.

In the afternoon, relax on a traditional sampan ride through palm-fringed canals — a highlight of the Mekong experience. Return to Ho Chi Minh City in the late afternoon. Overnight in Ho Chi Minh City.

Day 13: Ho Chi Minh City – Departure (B)

Enjoy breakfast and free time for shopping or sightseeing in Ho Chi Minh City. Transfer to Tan Son Nhat International Airport for your departure flight. End of services.

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