From Saigon to Hanoi: Crossing Vietnam Package | Authentic Tour – 17 Days

Ho Chi Minh City arrival, welcome and transfer to hotel Landing at the Tan Son Nhat airport, you are welcomed by professional tour guide and driver at the pickup lobby. On the 30-minute driving from the airport to the city center, your tour guide will introduce you about the highlights of the city, and share the experiences of eating and drinking, traffic, culture.... On arrival, transfer to your hotel. Note: Hotel check in time at 14.00 Included: English speaking guide Private transportation 02 bottles of mineral water (500 ml)/pax/day Elios Hotel(Senior Superior Room) 233 Pham Ngu Lao street, district 1, Ho Chi Minh City, Vietnam

Discovering Saigon city with the best highlights: Independence palace, Binh Tay market, China town, Quan Am pagoda and Fito Museum of traditional medicine 9:00 AM: You’ll start your day with a pickup from your hotel, heading to the Independence Palace. This historic site, once the residence and office of South Vietnamese presidents, is famed for the North Vietnamese tank that breached its gates in 1975, marking the end of the Vietnam War. The five-story building showcases rooms preserved in their 1960s and 1970s décor, and you’ll also explore its hidden bunker. Following the palace, enjoy a leisurely stroll to the Notre Dame Cathedral of Saigon, built between 1863 and 1880. This stunning example of French colonial architecture offers a peaceful retreat in the city. Next, head towards Nguyen Hue Walking Street and visit the iconic Saigon Central Post Office. Designed by the renowned architect Gustave Eiffel, this operational post office boasts beautiful interior design and historical charm. Afterward, a short drive will take you to Binh Tay Market in Saigon’s Chinatown. As the city’s largest market, it’s bustling with stalls selling everything from food and clothes to souvenirs. Don’t miss the food court where you can sample local street food and specialties. Continue your exploration with a visit to the Quan Am Pagoda, one of the city’s oldest temples. Dedicated to Guan Yin, the Goddess of Mercy, this pagoda reflects Taoist beliefs and reverence for the "Queen of Heaven." Lastly, visit the Traditional Medicine Museum (FITO), which showcases a fascinating collection of medicinal potions, plant formulas, and rare antique instruments. Your day concludes with a return to your hotel. Included: English speaking guide Meal: B Private transportation Entrance fees 02 bottles of mineral water (500 ml)/pax/day Elios Hotel(Senior Superior Room) 233 Pham Ngu Lao street, district 1, Ho Chi Minh City, Vietnam

From Saigon to Mekong discovery: Boat trip & biking in Ben Tre, visiting typical craft village, interact local people, garden tour, overnight in a homestay 8:00 AM: Begin your day with a pickup from your hotel and head to Ben Tre, a stunning region in the Mekong Delta renowned for its coconut candy. At Hung Vuong pier, board a boat for a trip along the Ben Tre River to explore local daily life. Continue on a canal boat to Nhon Thanh Village, where you’ll have the chance to taste fresh, tropical fruits. Opt for a bike or tuk-tuk ride through village paths, offering views of coconut plantations, rice fields, and vegetable gardens. Savor a lunch of elephant ear fish in the village. Following lunch, take a short walk to delve deeper into the local way of life. Then, enjoy a peaceful boat ride along a small canal, shaded by wild palm trees. You will then transfer to Cai Lay, with a journey lasting about one hour. Upon arrival, receive a warm welcome from your homestay host and take part in making Banh Xeo Nam Bo, a traditional regional dish, under their guidance. Finish your day with a delicious dinner and an overnight stay in Cai Lay. Included: English speaking guide Meal: B, L, D Boat: Ben Tre Private transportation Tuk Tuk: Ben Tre Cooking class: Ben Tre homestay 02 bottles of mineral water (500 ml)/pax/day Hai My's Homestay(Standard Room) 864 Provincial street, Dong Hoa hamlet, Tam Binh village, Cai Lay district, Tien Giang , Vietnam

Mekong discovery: Enjoying fruit garden tour, Kien An Cung pagoda, Huynh Thuy Le's house Eat breakfast at your homestay. Then set out for an invigorating bike ride (1-1.5 hours) from Dong Hoa to Tam Binh. As you pedal through the lush, fragrant orchards of durian, sapota, and longan, you’ll immerse yourself in the local agricultural life. Meet friendly villagers and explore a bustling market where you can sample fresh, regional produce. Return to your homestay for a well-deserved refreshment and rest. For those craving a bit more adventure, take a scenic one-hour walk along a picturesque trail with a local guide. Then, continue by bike to Ngu Hiep Island, a lush paradise created by the silt deposits of the Mekong River. Alternatively, if biking isn’t your preference, you can request a motorbike ride with a guide for a different way to explore. Journey to Long Xuyen with a fascinating stop in Sa Dec. Discover the Kien An Cung Pagoda, a serene and historic site, and visit the residence of Huynh Thuy Le, famously depicted in Marguerite Duras’s novel L’Amant – The Lover. Explore Sa Dec’s vibrant market, teeming with colorful fruits, vegetables, and fresh seafood. As you continue to Long Xuyen, enjoy visits to the striking Cao Dai Temple and an intriguing crocodile farm, offering a glimpse into the region’s diverse cultural and natural attractions. Arrive in Long Xuyen and settle into your hotel for a relaxing overnight stay, concluding your day with comfort and ease. Included: English speaking guide Meal: B, L Private transportation Entrance fees Bike: Ben Tre 02 bottles of mineral water (500 ml)/pax/day Hoa Binh 1 Hotel(Standard Room) 130 Tran Hung Dao street, Long Xuyen city, An Giang , Vietnam

Mekong discovery: Long Xuyen floating village, Cu Lao Ong Ho island. Back to Ho Chi Minh City In the morning, transfer to the vibrant floating market and floating village in Long Xuyen, located on a small Mekong River tributary. Experience the lively daily activities of the river's inhabitants. Enjoy a boat trip to Cu Lao Ong Ho, where you can visit a small museum dedicated to the renowned President Ton Duc Thang. Explore the island on a bike and take in the serene landscapes. Return to Saigon and check in to your hotel in the late afternoon. Included: English speaking guide Meal: B, L Boat: Long Xuyen Private transportation Bike: Long Xuyen 02 bottles of mineral water (500 ml)/pax/day Elios Hotel(Senior Superior Room) 233 Pham Ngu Lao street, district 1, Ho Chi Minh City, Vietnam

Special excursion to Cu Chi tunnels and then visiting Cao Dai temple, flying to Danang, Hoi An 8:00 AM: Discover one of the most significant historical sites from the Vietnam War, the Cu Chi Tunnels. This extraordinary underground network stretches over 250 kilometers and served as a vital resistance base for the Viet Cong during the war. The tunnels were meticulously constructed over twenty years using only basic tools like pickaxes and shovels. Your tour will include the opportunity to enter some of these tunnels for a firsthand experience. You’ll also visit the Ben Duoc Memorial Temple nearby, a less touristy site dedicated to honoring the Vietnamese who lost their lives at Cu Chi, built in 1993. This sacred site is a focal point of Caodaism, a distinctive Vietnamese religion blending elements of Confucianism, Buddhism, Taoism, and Roman Catholicism. Attend the midday mass to witness the vibrant rituals and experience the unique spiritual atmosphere of this intriguing faith. Enjoy a meal at a local restaurant featuring authentic Vietnamese cuisine. After lunch, transfer back to the city center and board your flight to Da Nang. Upon landing at Da Nang airport, you’ll be greeted by a professional tour guide and driver. During the 30-45 minute drive from the airport to your accommodation, your guide will offer insights into the city’s highlights, including local dining and drinking spots, traffic tips, and cultural nuances. Arrive at your hotel, check in, and take some time to unwind. Enjoy a drive along the picturesque coastline before settling in for a relaxing evening at your accommodation. Included: English speaking guide Meal: B, L Private transportation Entrance fees 02 bottles of mineral water (500 ml)/pax/day Flight :VN138 (SGN - DAD) - (Direct) / 16:00 - 17:35 - Vietnam Airlines - Economy / 06 tickets Delicacy Hotel & Spa(Deluxe City View Room) 116 Hung Vuong, Hoi An, Quang Nam , Vietnam

Discovering Hoi An rural by cycling and city walking tour 8:00 AM: Travel from your hotel to Hoi An town center. Begin with a visit to Cam Pho, one of the oldest in Hoi An. Its unique construction in the shape of a Chinese character symbolizes its role in religion, trade, and the cross-cultural exchange between local communities and Chinese and Japanese traders. Next, enjoy a leisurely walk to the Chua Cau, or Japanese Covered Bridge, Hoi An's iconic landmark. Built in the 17th century, this bridge was designed to connect the Chinese and Japanese quarters of the town. Its architecture has been meticulously preserved over the centuries, making it a significant historical monument. Explore the town on foot to get a genuine feel for local life. Visit Quan Thang Ancient House, a well-preserved example of Hoi An’s architectural heritage. This residence, renowned for its intricate carvings by master carpenters from the Kim Bong carpentry village, offers a glimpse into traditional Hoi An family life. Proceed to the Phuc Kien (Fujian) Assembly Hall, a beautifully decorated building reflecting the rich cultural exchanges between the Vietnamese and Chinese communities. Afterward, board a boat to cross the Thu Bon River to Kim Bong village, where you can enjoy scenic views of the riverbanks and the refreshing open air. Kim Bong Village is famous for its wood carving craftsmanship. Originally influenced by northern Vietnamese techniques, the local artisans have blended Chinese and Japanese styles to develop a unique approach. Explore the village by bike, visit a carpenter’s workshop to see their skillful work, and purchase handcrafted wooden items as souvenirs. Ride your bike to Tra Nhieu village, where you’ll experience the central Vietnamese countryside. Meet local artisans like Mr. Kha, who makes bamboo baskets, Ms. Duoc, who weaves mats, and Mr. Huynh Ri, a shipbuilder. Enjoy the rural landscape, featuring rice fields, palm groves, and farmers at work. Take a boat ride on the Thu Bon River from Tra Nhieu to Cam Thanh village, surrounded by water palm trees and fishing farms. Upon arrival, relax at Mr. Phong's home, where you can sip green tea and receive a soothing foot massage with herbs from the family’s garden. Next, get involved in preparing traditional dishes using fresh herbs and vegetables from Tra Que village. Learn to make grilled fish wrapped in banana leaves, Hoi An spring rolls, shrimp spring rolls, and crispy pancakes. Enjoy a delicious meal made from your own culinary creations. In the afternoon, take a tranquil ride in a circular bamboo sampan basket boat through the water palm grove, offering a peaceful end to your day of exploration. Return to your hotel at the end of the day to unwind and relax. Included: English speaking guide Meal: B, L Boat: Cam Thanh,Tra Nhieu - Cam Thanh Private transportation Entrance fees Bike: Hoi An Leisure: Foot massage Cooking class: Cam Thanh 02 bottles of mineral water (500 ml)/pax/day Delicacy Hotel & Spa(Deluxe City View Room) 116 Hung Vuong, Hoi An, Quang Nam , Vietnam

Exploring My Son Sanctuary, Champa culture, unique architecture 8:00 AM: Your day begins with a pickup from your hotel by your guide and driver. Set off on a half-day adventure to explore the sacred My Son Sanctuary, located 40 kilometers from Hoi An. This ancient site was once the spiritual and intellectual heart of the Champa Kingdom and may have also been a royal burial site. As a UNESCO World Heritage site, My Son features approximately 70 ancient brick and stone structures that date from the 7th to the 13th centuries. Your knowledgeable guide will walk you through the site, explaining its cultural, historical, and architectural significance as you leisurely explore each temple and monument. The experience is enhanced by a traditional Champa dance performance, adding a vibrant cultural element to your visit. Following the excursion, return to Hoi An and continue your day with the freedom to explore or relax as you wish. Included: English speaking guide Meal: B, L Private transportation Entrance fees 02 bottles of mineral water (500 ml)/pax/day Delicacy Hotel & Spa(Deluxe City View Room) 116 Hung Vuong, Hoi An, Quang Nam , Vietnam

Travelling to Hue, visiting Cham sculpture museum, Hai Van Pass, Thien Mu Pagoda and Hue citadel 8:00 AM: Depart from your hotel and set out on a scenic drive along the coast from Da Nang to Hue. Your first stop is the Cham Museum in Da Nang, celebrated for its unparalleled collection of Cham artifacts, offering a deep dive into the rich history and artistry of the Champa civilization. Continue your journey to My Khe Beach, where you'll visit the Linh Ung Pagoda. Here, marvel at the towering Goodness of Mercy statues and capture the vibrant life of local fishermen along the shoreline. As you proceed towards Hue, ascend the Hai Van Pass, where you'll be treated to stunning panoramic views of the coastline and the verdant landscape below. The dramatic scenery makes for an unforgettable photo opportunity. Upon arriving in Hue, enjoy a hearty lunch before heading to Thien Mu Pagoda. This historic site, established in 1601, stands as a spiritual beacon of the city, known for its elegant octagonal tower and picturesque views of the Perfume River. Discover the grandeur of the Hue Citadel, a magnificent remnant of Vietnam’s imperial era. Modeled after Vauban’s fortifications, the Citadel is divided into three sections: the Forbidden City (Cam Thanh), the Imperial City (Hoang Thanh), and the Capital City (Kinh Thanh). Explore key landmarks including the Flag Tower, South Gate, Palace of Supreme Harmony, Dynasty Temple area, and the surrounding historical precincts. End your day by checking into your hotel in Hue, where you can relax and reflect on your journey through this historic capital. Included: English speaking guide Meal: B, L Private transportation Entrance fees 02 bottles of mineral water (500 ml)/pax/day Rosaleen Boutique Hotel(Deluxe Double Room) 36 Chu Van An street, Hue city, Thua Thien Hue, Vietnam

An amazing day tour to explore Perfume River by boat trip, excursion to Tien Non, Thanh Tien, Sinh village, Khai Dinh King's Tomb. Take a flight to Hanoi 8:00 AM: Set off for a charming royal boat ride along the Huong River, or Perfume River, to explore the traditional eastern villages of Hue. Start by visiting Tien Non village, where you can embark on a bike tour through Tien Non, Thanh Tien, and Sinh villages, immersing yourself in the local culture and daily life. Meet the villagers tending to their crops and visit their family worship house. Next, in Thanh Tien Village, famous for its 400-year-old tradition of crafting paper flowers, you’ll have the chance to learn from Mr. Hieu, a local artisan, about the art of paper flower making. Continue to Sinh Village, known for its ancient folklore prints, and watch Mr. Phuoc demonstrate traditional printing techniques. Afterward, return to the city by boat. Visit Khai Dinh King's mausoleum on Chau Tru Hill, an architectural marvel blending Western and Eastern styles. Climb the 100 steps to the worship palace and explore the adjacent museum showcasing royal relics and exquisite porcelain decorations. Enjoy panoramic views of the tomb and its surroundings on your descent. Travel to Noi Bai Airport for your flight to Hanoi. Upon arrival, a tour guide and driver will meet you and transfer you to the Old Quarter, where you can check in at your hotel and relax. Note: Hotel check in time at 14.00 Included: English speaking guide Meal: B Boat: Sinh - Tien Non Private transportation Entrance fees Bike: Hue 02 bottles of mineral water (500 ml)/pax/day Flight :VN1544 (HUI - HAN) - (Direct) / 18:30 - 20:10 - Vietnam Airlines - Economy / 06 tickets Conifer Grand Hotel(ROH Room) 42 Tho Xuong, Hoan Kiem district, Ha Noi City, Vietnam

Exploring the center of culture & education Van Mieu, outstanding museum of ethnology, visiting French Quarter and discovering Old town 9:00 AM: Your day begins with a pick-up from your hotel to visit the Temple of Literature. This historic site, established in the 11th century by the Ly Dynasty to honor Confucius and educate royal children, is a cornerstone of Vietnamese education and culture. Enjoy a walk through its serene courtyards, admire Khue Van Cac, the city’s iconic pavilion, and view the "stone steles," which commemorate Vietnam’s top scholars. Explore Quoc Tu Giam, the nation’s first university, and delve into its storied past. Next, head to the Ethnology Museum (closed on Mondays), which offers an in-depth look at Vietnam’s diverse cultures. The museum features exhibits on traditional homes, tools, clothing, and musical instruments from various ethnic groups. Spend approximately two hours exploring the exhibits and gaining insight into Vietnam’s rich cultural tapestry. In the afternoon, discover Hanoi’s French Quarter, known for its grand architecture and tree-lined boulevards. Visit the exterior of Ho Chi Minh’s tomb, and then take a relaxing stroll through the botanical gardens to see the Presidential Palace, once Ho Chi Minh’s residence and working office. Continue to the One-Pillar Pagoda, a unique and iconic landmark of Hanoi. Depending on the group size, this exploration may take one to two hours. Afterward, make your way to the Ba Da Pagoda, a hidden gem located in a narrow alley near the Hanoi Great Cathedral, which dates back to the 19th century. Your guide will then take you through some of Hanoi’s distinctive streets, such as Lan Ong Street, known for its traditional medicine shops, and Lo Ren Street, famous for metalwork. Don’t miss a visit to Dong Xuan Market, the largest central market in Hanoi. Finally, head to Ta Hien Street, a vibrant area famous for its nightlife and street food. Enjoy the lively atmosphere and sample an array of local street foods and drinks. End your day with a water puppet show, a traditional Vietnamese art form dating back to the 11th century. The performance features puppets dancing on water, showcasing aspects of Vietnamese life and culture, often accompanied by live traditional music. Return to your hotel to relax and conclude your day. Included: English speaking guide Meal: B Private transportation Entrance fees Leisure: Water puppet 02 bottles of mineral water (500 ml)/pax/day Conifer Grand Hotel(ROH Room) 42 Tho Xuong, Hoan Kiem district, Ha Noi City, Vietnam

Travelling to Muong hamlet & scenic views at Thung Khe, Authentic life of Thai in Mai Hich, Sam Khoe, Buoc villages 8:00 AM: Arrive in Mai Chau and meet your driver and tour leader. On your way, stop by a Muong village to experience local culture. Continue your journey to Thung Khe Pass, where you'll be treated to breathtaking panoramic views of the valley before reaching Mai Chau town. Located 145 kilometers from Hanoi, Mai Chau is renowned for its stunning landscapes, featuring lush mountain ranges, terraced rice fields, and traditional White Thai villages. Upon arriving at Mai Hich village, check into your accommodation and enjoy a lunch prepared by your host. Afterward, explore the village on foot. Wander along concrete roads and footpaths that meander through the picturesque landscapes of rice fields, mountains, and streams. Engage with the friendly locals, who will be delighted to invite you for a cup of tea in their homes. As you continue trekking, pass through charming villages and rice fields until you reach Xam Khoe, a Thai village that remains largely untouched by tourism. Immerse yourself in the rich cultural heritage and natural beauty of the area. After your trek, a vehicle will pick you up and return you to your lodging to relax and unwind. Note: Private traditional music and dancing show by local people is available with extra cost of $35/group. Please ask our guide to reserve if you are interested in. Included: English speaking guide Meal: B, L, D Private transportation 02 bottles of mineral water (500 ml)/pax/day Mai Hich Homestay (Sharing homestay) Mai Hich commune, Mai Chau district, Hoa Binh , Vietnam

Excursion to Muong community in Eo Ken & Ban Hang villages 8:00 AM: Move from Mai Hich to Eo Ken, located 30 km away, where the Muong ethnic minority lives. Walk down the slope and enjoy the magnificent views of Pu Luong Nature Reserve, with its terraced rice fields and mountainous backdrop. Visit a Muong family in Eo Ken village to experience their traditional way of life. Proceed with a walk through the beautiful scenery and cross a stream to reach Hang Village. Following this, your driver will take you to Mai Chau for lunch. After lunch, travel to Ninh Binh, stopping en route to meet locals and take photographs. Arrive in Ninh Binh in the late afternoon and check into your hotel. Included: English speaking guide Meal: B, L, D Private transportation 02 bottles of mineral water (500 ml)/pax/day Nep House(Double Room) Lang Noi, Lang Van, Gia Lap, Gia Vien, Ninh Binh , Vietnam

Biking to Thung La temple and then a boat trip in Van Long Nature Reserve, embroidering experience 8:00 AM: Choose to embark on either a 10 km bike ride (one way) or a 20 km round-trip ride along the scenic dyke. This route offers captivating views of rice fields, rivers, and limestone mountains. Feel free to stop along the way to take photos and engage with the local people. Following your bike ride, visit Thung La Temple, an ancient site from the 11th century, and explore traditional musical instruments that play a key role in Vietnamese spiritual life. After the temple visit, enjoy a relaxing sampan boat ride through Van Long Nature Reserve, navigating among limestone formations and tranquil waterways. You might be fortunate enough to see white monkeys and egrets along the cliffs. Following the boat trip, head to an embroidery village and join a workshop led by local craftswoman Mrs. Lam. She will teach you traditional embroidery techniques, providing you with the opportunity to create your own embroidered fabric. Finish your visit by returning your bike at the homestay and saying farewell to your host. Travel from Ninh Binh back to Hanoi, taking in the scenic beauty of the Red River Delta. Capture the lush rice fields and serene countryside through your camera lens along the way. Included: English speaking guide Meal: B Boat: Van Long Private transportation Entrance fees Bike: Tam Coc Leisure: Thung La temple music 02 bottles of mineral water (500 ml)/pax/day Conifer Grand Hotel(ROH Room) 42 Tho Xuong, Hoan Kiem district, Ha Noi City, Vietnam

Cruising in Bai Tu Long bay, exploring Cap La Island, cooking class and overnight on boat 8:00 AM: Departure from your hotel in the Hanoi Old Quarter. Take a three-hour drive to Bai Tu Long Bay, traveling through charming villages and lush rice fields in the Red River Delta. Stop for a drink and restroom break en route. Arrive at the harbor around noon, where you'll be warmly welcomed at the cruise reception. 11:30 - 11:45 AM: Upon arrival at the Ha Long International Cruise Port lounge, relax while the captain finishes the registration. Transfer to the boat by tender. 12:00 - 12:15 PM: Enjoy a welcome drink and receive a safety briefing about the cruise activities before checking into your cabin. 1:00 PM: Relish a Vietnamese set menu lunch while the boat cruises further into Bai Tu Long Bay. 3:00 PM: Arrive at Cap La Island for kayaking among the dramatic karst formations. Enjoy the chance to swim and relax in the stunning surroundings. 5:40 PM: Return to the boat for the Sunset Party as the cruise heads to its overnight anchorage. Attend a cooking demonstration to learn how to prepare a classic Vietnamese dish or try your hand at fruit and vegetable carving. 7:00 PM: Delight in a delicious set dinner on board. 8:30 - 10:00 PM: Spend your evening engaging in Vietnamese puzzle games, board games with loved ones, squid fishing, or simply unwinding with a cocktail as you enjoy the peaceful night on the bay. Included: Shuttle bus: Hanoi - Halong English speaking guide (on board) Meal: B, L, D Entrance fees Kayak: Halong Leisure: Swimming Cooking class: Halong (on board) - cooking demonstration 02 bottles of mineral water (500 ml)/pax/day Swan Cruise - 2D1N(Deluxe Cabin) 3 Dang Thai Than street, Hoan Kien district, Ha Noi City, Vietnam

Visiting the charm of Thien Canh Son cave, stunning cruising and back to Hanoi Thien Canh Son cave, stunning cruise. 6:30 AM: Join a sunrise Tai Chi session on the sundeck or simply relax with a tea or coffee, taking in the stunning views of the bay. 7:00 AM: Enjoy a Western-style breakfast to get ready for another day of exploration. 7:45 AM: Discover the hidden Thien Canh Son Cave. 9:00 AM: Return to the boat to freshen up and finish packing within the next 30 minutes. 9:30 AM: Check out of your cabin. 10:00 AM: Delight in a traditional Vietnamese lunch served onboard. 10:30 AM: Head back to the harbor. 11:15 - 11:30 AM: Disembark at Ha Long Cruise Port and be greeted by your driver. Make your way back to Hanoi, with a break in the middle of the journey. You’ll be dropped off at your hotel in the Hanoi Old Quarter. Included: English speaking guide (on board) Meal: B, L Entrance fees Leisure: Morning Tai Chi 02 bottles of mineral water (500 ml)/pax/day Conifer Grand Hotel(ROH Room) 42 Tho Xuong, Hoan Kiem district, Ha Noi City, Vietnam

Transferring to airport for flights to next destinations Private driver will pick you up at the hotel lobby (Hanoi Old Quarter) for about 45 minutes to Noi Bai airport (international or domestic hall according to your request). Thanks for the visit to our city. Note: International flights require you to be at the airport 3 hours and domestic is 2 hours before departure time. Included: Meal: B Private transportation 02 bottles of mineral water (500 ml)/pax/day