Discover The South and Center | Vietnam Authentic Tour – 12 Days

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: Movep from your hotel and head to the historic Independence Palace, once the official residence and workplace of the South Vietnamese president. Explore the five-story building, where you’ll see rooms preserved in their 1960s and 1970s glory, and visit the bunker that played a crucial role during the final days of the Vietnam War. Don’t miss the iconic North Vietnamese tank that famously breached the palace gates in 1975, symbolizing the end of a turbulent era.

Continue your leisurely exploration with a visit to the Notre Dame Cathedral in Saigon. Constructed between 1863 and 1880, this architectural gem is a striking example of French colonial influence, offering a serene retreat within the bustling city.
Stroll over to Nguyen Hue Walking Street to admire another of the city’s architectural marvels: the Saigon Central Post Office. Designed by the renowned architect Gustave Eiffel, this grand structure boasts beautiful interior decor and remains a fully operational post office.

Next, enjoy a short drive to Binh Tay Market, situated in the heart of Saigon’s Chinatown. As the largest market in the city, it buzzes with activity and offers an array of goods, from fresh produce to clothing and souvenirs. Sample local street food and specialties at the bustling food court.

Visit the Quan Am Pagoda, one of Saigon’s oldest temples, dedicated to Guan Yin and Taoist beliefs. This peaceful sanctuary honors the "Queen of Heaven" and provides a glimpse into local spiritual practices.

Conclude your day with a trip to the FITO Museum, dedicated to traditional Vietnamese medicine. Explore its collection of ancient remedies, therapeutic plant formulas, and historical medical instruments.

Return to your hotel in the evening, reflecting on a day rich with history, culture, and discovery.

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

Special excursion to Cu Chi tunnels and then visiting Cao Dai temple.

8:00 AM: Discover the Cu Chi Tunnels, a pivotal site in Vietnam War history. Experience the labyrinthine world of the Cu Chi Tunnels, an extensive underground network that stretches over 250 kilometers. This subterranean city, meticulously crafted by the Viet Cong using only pickaxes and shovels, reveals the remarkable resilience and resourcefulness of those who lived here. You’ll have the chance to explore parts of the tunnels and gain insight into their historical significance. Additionally, visit the Ben Duoc Memorial Temple, a poignant tribute built in 1993, dedicated to honoring the Vietnamese soldiers who lost their lives in Cu Chi.

Next, head to the Cao Dai Temple, one of Vietnam’s sacred sites. Caodaism, a distinctive Vietnamese religion, incorporates elements of Taoism, Buddhism, Confucianism, and even Roman Catholicism. Attend the midday mass to witness the unique blend of spiritual traditions.

Conclude your tour with a delicious lunch at a local restaurant, savoring authentic Vietnamese cuisine. Return to your hotel in the afternoon, ready to unwind and reflect on your enriching day.

Included:
English speaking guide
Meal: B, L
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: Move to Ben Tre, a picturesque Mekong Delta region famous for its coconut candy.

Upon reaching Hung Vuong Pier, embark on a boat ride along the Ben Tre River to get a glimpse of local life. Continue your journey on a canal to Nhon Thanh Village, where you can sample fresh fruits. Opt for a bike ride or tuk-tuk trip through the village paths, taking in the sights of coconut trees, rice paddies, and vegetable gardens.

Enjoy a local lunch featuring elephant ear fish in the village. After lunch, take a short walk to explore local life further. Then, embark on a boat ride through a canal shaded by palm trees. Conclude your visit to Ben Tre with a one-hour drive to Cai Lay. Upon arrival, you'll be warmly welcomed by your homestay host and participate in preparing Banh Xeo Nam Bo, a traditional dish from the region.

Have dinner and stay overnight at your homestay 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

After breakfast at the homestay, embark on a picturesque 1 to 1.5-hour bike ride from Dong Hoa to Tam Binh. Pedal through a tapestry of lush longan, sapota, and durian orchards, and take a moment to engage with the warm-hearted locals you encounter. Stop by the bustling village market, where vibrant colors and lively chatter add to the charm, before heading back to the homestay for a refreshing break.

For those craving an extended adventure, consider cycling to Ngu Hiep Island, a verdant jewel shaped by the Mekong River’s alluvial deposits. Enjoy a tranquil one-hour guided walk through this lush paradise, immersing yourself in its unique landscape. Prefer a different mode of transport? A local motorcycle driver can whisk you away instead.

Next, set off for Sa Dec, en route to Long Xuyen. Along the way, delve into history at the Kien An Cung Pagoda and visit the home of Huynh Thuy Le, the real-life inspiration behind Marguerite Duras’ novel "L'Amant – The Lover." Stroll through the lively Sa Dec market, where the vibrant selection of fruits, vegetables, and seafood paints a vivid picture of local life.

Arrive in Long Xuyen and explore its highlights, including the Cao Dai Temple and a crocodile farm. After a day filled with exploration and discovery, check into your hotel in Long Xuyen and unwind, reflecting on the rich experiences of the day.

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

Head to the vibrant floating market and village in Long Xuyen, located on a small Mekong River tributary. Observe the daily life of the river’s residents as you explore their bustling and authentic environment. Enjoy a boat ride to Cu Lao Ong Ho, where you can visit a small museum dedicated to the renowned President Ton Duc Thang. Take a leisurely bike ride around the island, taking in the serene landscapes.

Travel back to Saigon and check into your hotel by 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

From Ho Chi Minh city, flying to Danang - Hoi An walking tour

After you’re dropped off at your hotel lobby, a private vehicle will whisk you to either the international or domestic terminal at Tan Son Nhat Airport in approximately thirty minutes. We’re delighted to welcome you to our city.

Note: For domestic flights, please arrive at the airport two hours before departure. For international flights, we recommend arriving three hours in advance.

Keep in mind that during rush hour, from 7:00 to 8:30 AM and 4:30 to 6:30 PM, the journey from the city center to Tan Son Nhat Airport can take about an hour.

Upon your arrival at Da Nang Airport, a knowledgeable tour guide and driver will be waiting for you at the pickup lobby. During the 30-45 minute drive to your accommodation, your guide will offer insights into the city's highlights, share tips on dining, transportation, and cultural experiences.

Settle into your accommodation by the coast, take in the stunning views, and relax before setting out for an afternoon walking tour of Hoi An’s historic heart. Begin at Cam Pho, one of the oldest communal houses in the area. Its Chinese character-inspired design reflects a blend of religion, trade, and cultural interaction among the local community and Chinese and Japanese merchants.

Next, wander to the iconic Chua Cau, or Japanese Covered Bridge. This 17th-century marvel, connecting the Chinese and Japanese quarters, has been meticulously preserved, showcasing its original architecture through centuries.

Explore further to the Quan Thang Ancient House, one of Hoi An's most authentic historic buildings. Admire its striking oriental architecture and intricate sculptures, crafted by master carpenters from the Kim Bong carpentry village, offering a glimpse into traditional Hoi An family life.

Continue your journey to the Phuc Kien Assembly Hall, or Fujian Assembly Hall, built in the 17th century as a meeting place for Fujian traders and a worship site for the goddess Thien Hau. Marvel at the intricate dragon carvings, vibrant courtyard fountains, and elaborate gates that adorn the hall.

After your walking tour, return to your hotel or venture out to explore the city’s vibrant nightlife on your own.

Included:
English speaking guide
Meal: B
Private transportation
Entrance fees
02 bottles of mineral water (500 ml)/pax/day
Flight :VN118 (SGN - DAD) - (Direct) / 09:00 - 10:30 - Vietnam Airlines - Economy / 06 tickets
La Charm Hoi An Hotel & Spa(Superior Room)
64 Dao Duy Tu, Hoi An, Quang Nam , Vietnam

A great day to Kim Bong, Tra Nhieu, Cam Thanh village, boat trip & biking in country side, interact with local people.

Gather at your accommodation and set off on a bike ride to the Hoi An dock. From there, board a boat for a scenic journey across the Thu Bon River to Kim Bong hamlet. Enjoy the breathtaking views of both riverbanks and the refreshing breeze as you glide along the water.

Kim Bong is renowned for its exceptional wood carving, a craft with roots in northern Vietnam that evolved through the influence of Chinese and Japanese sculptors. Explore the village by bike to experience local life firsthand, visit a carpenter’s workshop to witness the artisans’ skills, and perhaps pick up a unique wooden keepsake.

Continue your cycling adventure through picturesque rice paddies and across bamboo bridges to Tra Nhieu village. Immerse yourself in the serene landscape of central Vietnam, where you’ll have the chance to meet local artisans like Mr. Kha, who crafts bamboo baskets, Ms. Duoc, a mat weaver, and Mr. Huynh Ri, known for his shipbuilding. As you ride, you’ll pass lush rice fields, palm groves, and hardworking farmers, offering a vivid glimpse of rural life.

From Tra Nhieu, take a boat ride on the Thu Bon River to Cam Thanh hamlet, where water palm trees and fishing farms frame your journey. Upon arrival, board a traditional round bamboo sampan boat and enjoy a tranquil adventure collecting crabs amid the water palm jungle—an idyllic respite after your cycling.

Next, visit Mr. Phong, a local fisherman, for a brief rest in his home. Relish some green tea and a soothing foot massage with herbal infusions from his garden. Then, head to Tra Que village for a hands-on culinary experience. Learn to prepare local specialties such as crispy pancakes with beef, shrimp, and bean sprouts; Hoi An and Tam Huu spring rolls; and grilled fish wrapped in banana leaves. Savor the delicious dishes you’ve crafted yourself.

In the afternoon, return to your hotel to unwind after a day full of exploration and new experiences.

Included:
English speaking guide
Meal: B, L
Boat: Cam Thanh,Tra Nhieu - Cam Thanh
Entrance fees
Bike: Hoi An
Leisure: Foot massage
Cooking class: Cam Thanh
02 bottles of mineral water (500 ml)/pax/day
La Charm Hoi An Hotel & Spa(Superior Room)
64 Dao Duy Tu, Hoi An, Quang Nam , Vietnam

Exploring My Son Sanctuary, Champa culture, unique architecture

At 8:00 AM e a half-day trip to My Son, the sacred valley of the Champa Kingdom. Located 40 kilometers from Hoi An, My Son was a key religious and intellectual center of the Champa Kingdom and may have also served as a royal burial site.

A UNESCO World Heritage site, My Son is home to 70 ancient brick and stone structures built from the 7th to the 13th century. As you explore the site, your guide will explain its cultural, historical, and architectural significance. The tour concludes with a traditional Champa dance performance.

After your visit, you’ll return to Hoi An, where you can explore the city at your leisure or relax on the beach.

Included:
English speaking guide
Meal: B, L
Private transportation
Entrance fees
02 bottles of mineral water (500 ml)/pax/day
La Charm Hoi An Hotel & Spa(Superior Room)
64 Dao Duy Tu, Hoi An, Quang Nam , Vietnam

Travelling to Hue, visiting Cham sculpture museum, Hai Van Pass, Thien Mu Pagoda and Hue citadel

8:00 AM: Embark on your journey from the hotel, taking the scenic coastline route from Da Nang to Hue. Your first stop in Da Nang will be the Cham Museum, renowned for housing the world's most comprehensive collection of Cham artifacts. After exploring the museum, take a leisurely walk to My Khe Beach to admire the impressive Goodness of Mercy sculptures at Linh Ung Pagoda. Capture some memorable photos of local fishermen along the shore before continuing your drive along the coast to the ancient capital of Hue.

On the way, make sure to pause at the summit of Hai Van Pass. The panoramic ocean views from this vantage point are truly spectacular.

Upon arrival in Hue, enjoy a delicious lunch before heading to Thien Mu Pagoda. Established in 1601, this historic pagoda is one of the city's most revered sites. Its iconic octagonal tower and stunning views of the Perfume River make it a highlight of your visit.

Next, delve into Hue's rich history with a visit to the Hue Citadel, the sole surviving relic of Vietnam's imperial capital. Modeled after Vauban's fortifications, the Citadel is divided into three main sections: the Forbidden City (Cam Thanh), the Imperial City (Hoang Thanh), and the Capital City (Kinh Thanh). Explore the impressive flag tower, the South Gate, the Palace of Supreme Harmony, the Dynasty Temple area, and the Settlement area, all of which offer captivating glimpses into Hue’s regal past.

After a day filled with historical exploration and scenic views, check into your hotel and relax, immersing yourself in the charm of Vietnam's 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.

8:00 AM: Start your day with a royal boat excursion on the Huong River, also known as the Perfume River, exploring the easternmost villages of Hue. As you drift along this serene waterway, you’ll witness traditional village life on both banks. Disembark at Tien Non village and embark on a bike ride through Tien Non, Thanh Tien, and Sinh villages, immersing yourself in the local daily routines.

In Tien Non, engage with locals working on their farms and visit a family worship house to experience the village's cultural heritage. Proceed to Thanh Tien Village, renowned for its 400-year tradition of crafting paper flowers. Here, you’ll visit the esteemed Mr. Hieu, a master artisan, and learn the art of creating these decorative flowers used to honor ancestors during New Year's celebrations. Continue to Sinh Village, the birthplace of Hue’s 400-year-old folklore prints. Meet Mr. Phuoc, who will demonstrate traditional printing techniques, offering you the chance to acquire some exquisite keepsakes.

After your village explorations, return to the city by boat and prepare for an afternoon visit to the Khai Dinh Mausoleum, perched atop Chau Tru Hill. Built between 1920 and 1931, this mausoleum is distinctive for its fusion of Western and Oriental architectural styles. Climb the hundred steps to reach the worship palace, where you'll find a small museum of royal relics, a magnificent ceiling mural, and intricate porcelain decorations. The descent provides panoramic views of the mausoleum and its surroundings.

The tour concludes around 4:00 PM. You can choose to spend an additional night in Hue or continue your journey with an overnight train or flight to your next destination.

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
Rosaleen Boutique Hotel(Deluxe Double Room)
36 Chu Van An street, Hue city, Thua Thien Hue, Vietnam

From Hue, flying to other destinations

Private driver will pick you up at the hotel lobby (in Hue city center) for about 30 minutes to Phu Bai airport for your flight. Thanks for the visit to our city.

Note: Domestic flight requires you to be at the airport 1.5 hours before departure time.

Included:
Meal: B
Private transportation
02 bottles of mineral water (500 ml)/pax/day
Flight :VN1373 (HUI - SGN) - (Direct) / 13:40 - 15:20 - Vietnam Airlines - Economy / 06 tickets