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From Hanoi to Saigon: Explore Vietnam Top To Tail | Authentic Tour – 22 Days

22 Days
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A great journey to Vietnam. Grab the heritage destinations with discoveries from the region of the majestic northeastern mountains, diverse ethnic minorities to the bustling Mekong River. Encounter with the hospitable people, learn their unique culture as well as famous native cuisine … Welcome to Vietnam

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Overview

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Overview

Start/End: Hanoi/Ho Chi Minh City (Saigon)

Visit: Hanoi – Ha Giang – Dong Van – Bao Lac – Ba Be – Hai Phong – Lan Ha bay – Hue – Hoi An – My Son – Ho Chi Minh City (Saigon) – Tay Ninh – Ben Tre – Long Xuyen

Duration: 22 Days

Travel style: Authentic, Active, Mountain & Minority, Culture and Heritage, Nature & Discover

Category: Private tour

Tour schedule: Daily departure

Tour guide in: English, Français, Español, Deutsch, Italiano

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Highlights

  • Charming Hanoi capital
  • Encounter with minority groups: Dao, Bo Y, H'mong, Black Lo Lo, San Chi, Tay
  • Uncharted trekking route in Ha Giang, Dong Van
  • Stunning mountain landscapes and nature discover: Quan Ba Twin Mountains, Dong Van karst plateau heritage, Ma Pi Leng pass, Ba Be Lake national park & Hua Ma Cave, Halong Bay
  • Homestay experience
  • Overnight on Halong Bay Cruise
  • Indochina overnight train experience
  • Hue ancient capital
  • Hoian ancient town
  • My Son Sanctuary
  • Cultural & Historic excursion
  • Mekong Delta & bustling floating market
  • Activities of Trekking, Hiking, Biking and boating, cruising
  • Authentic experience

Itinerary

Welcome to Hanoi, enjoy a walking tour in the old quarter

Landing at the Noi Bai airport, you are welcomed by professional tour guide and driver at the pickup lobby. Enjoy 45-minute driving to the city center (Hanoi Old Quarter) with city's briefing information about the most visited spots, culture, traffic and cuisine....Arrive in your hotel, check in and have a rest.

Note: Hotel check in time at 14.00

Later, enjoy a nice walking tour escorted by your tour guide. Start with a small pagoda named Ba Da quietly located in a small alley - only few steps from the Hanoi Great Cathedral, built by French colonialism since the 19th century. Your tour guide also takes you to typical streets of Hanoi such as Lan Ong Street selling traditional medicine, Lo Ren Street where metal items are produced ... Stop to visit the Dong Xuan central market - the largest in Hanoi. Continue walking to the famous area for night activities and street food - Ta Hien street, where you can see the vibrant streets with a lot of the amazing local foods and drinks. Trying to taste some for an unforgettable experience.

Note: If your flight arrival late or you are jet leg after long flight, the walking tour will be moved to the city tour day.

Included:
English speaking guide
Private transportation
Entrance fees
02 bottles of mineral water (500 ml)/pax/day
Conifer Grand Hotel(ROH Room)
42 Tho Xuong, Hoan Kiem district, Ha Noi City, Vietnam

Day 2 :
Hanoi

Exploring the center of culture & education Van Mieu, outstanding museum of ethnology, visiting French Quarter and discovering Old town

9:00 AM: Be picked up by your tour guide and start with a visit to the Temple of Literature, established in the 11th century during the Ly dynasty for honoring Confucius and educating royal children. Enjoy a walk through the gardens and admire Khue Van Cac, the city’s emblem. You will also see the World Heritage "stone steles," which list the names of distinguished students, and explore the Quoc Tu Giam, the first national university of Vietnam.

The Ethnology Museum, which is closed on Mondays, will then be your next stop. Through displays of traditional clothing, utensils, musical instruments, and ethnic group homes, it provides a thorough look into Vietnamese culture. Give this visit around two hours of your time.

Explore the French Quarter in the afternoon. This quaint neighborhood, sometimes referred to as "little Paris," has large government buildings, tree-lined streets, and open squares. After seeing Ho Chi Minh's tomb from the exterior, take a stroll through the botanical gardens to visit the Presidential Palace and the stilt house, which served as his residence and place of employment. Depending on the size of the company, a visit to the unique One-Pillar Pagoda, another local attraction, would take one to two hours.

A traditional water puppet show, a one-of-a-kind performance that has been a part of Vietnamese culture since the 11th century, will mark the end of the day. Puppets on the water will depict daily life, culture, and beliefs as traditional music plays. After that, head back to your hotel.

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

Traveling to Ha Giang, enjoying scenic drive, trek route: Me - Lup - Tha villages

8:00 AM: Begin your journey from your Hanoi hotel to Ha Giang, traveling along the highway through Phu Tho. Stop by the Dao village in Ham Yen, Tuyen Quang to explore traditional stilt houses, a hallmark of the ethnic communities in this hilly area.

After arriving in Ha Giang around lunchtime, start your hike to the villages of Me, Lup, and Tha. These charming settlements are distinguished by their palm-leaf-covered stilt dwellings. In front of the homes are water hyacinth gardens and tiny fish ponds that are used to raise pigs. See a typical residence, experience the famed hospitality of the people, and gain insight into their daily routine. Arriving in Tha Village, which is situated between rice fields and palm-covered hills, allows you to relax and take in the peaceful surroundings.

Before the sun sets, check into your lodging and enjoy a leisurely stroll to get a taste of the native mountain way of life.

Included:
English speaking guide
Meal: B, L, D
Private transportation
Entrance fees
02 bottles of mineral water (500 ml)/pax/day
Ha Giang Homestay (Mr Toi) (Sharing homestay)
Ha Thanh village. Ha Giang city, Ha Giang , Vietnam

Day 4 :
Ha Giang

Exploring Tay Con Linh Mountain range. Visiting Tha – Na Thac – Khuoi My – Lung Vai – Ha Thanh Villages

8:00 AM: Leave your accommodation and head towards the Tay Con Linh Mountain range, following this route: Ha Thanh - Lung Vai - Khuoi My - Na Thac - Tha villages. Begin with a car ride to Ha Thanh Village, where you’ll start your uphill trek. The first part of the climb might be demanding, but the incredible natural beauty makes it rewarding. As you ascend, you’ll enjoy sweeping views of the valley, mountain peaks, and Ha Giang city.

After a few hours of trekking, you’ll arrive at Lung Vai Village, where the Dao ethnic group lives. Take some time to explore and have lunch in the village. Continue your journey on the uneven trail from Lung Vai to Khuoi My and then to Na Thac.

Throughout your trek, you’ll see beautiful rice terraces and have opportunities to meet local inhabitants.

Your trek will conclude with a return to Tha Village in the afternoon.

Included:
English speaking guide
Meal: B, L, D
Private transportation
02 bottles of mineral water (500 ml)/pax/day
Ha Giang Homestay (Mr Toi) (Sharing homestay)
Ha Thanh village. Ha Giang city, Ha Giang , Vietnam

A great driving to Dong Van Karst Plateau Geopark, Twin Fairy mountain, home to Hmong & Bo Y ethnic people, H'mong King palace

8:00 AM: Set out for Dong Van, enjoying the enchanting landscapes along the way. Before reaching the Quan Ba Pass, make a stop to visit a Bo Y village in Quyet Tien Commune. The Bo Y people, originally from China, are a small community of about 2,000 individuals who live in the northern mountainous regions. Pause at the Quan Ba Pass to take in the views of Quan Ba Town and the renowned Twin Fairy Mountain (Nui Co Tien).

Continue your journey to the Limestone Rock Plateau, often referred to as the mountainous Halong Bay. This stunning natural area is recognized in the World Geological Park. Along the way, visit Lung Hoa Village to see the “Nha Trinh Tuong,” a distinctive type of Hmong house built on sticky ground. Next, explore the Palace of the H'mong King (Dinh Vua Meo), a historical site from a century ago when the regions of Quan Ba, Yen Minh, Dong Van, and Meo Vac were governed autonomously by their own king. These areas were known for cultivating poppies and engaging in opium trade with China. Arrive in Dong Van, check into your accommodation, and relax.

Included:
English speaking guide
Meal: B, L, D
Private transportation
Entrance fees
02 bottles of mineral water (500 ml)/pax/day
Hoa Cuong Hotel(Double Room)
Dong Van town, Dong Van district, Ha Giang , Vietnam

Day 6 :
Dong Van

Visiting Lung Cu flag pole, particular scenic, Lo Lo village, trekking in Dong Van, along Nho Que river

Travel to Lung Cu, located at an elevation of 1,470 meters and recognized as a landmark in Northern Vietnam. The Lung Cu flagpole is a symbol of national pride. Climb 900 steps to experience panoramic views of the surrounding mountains, valleys, and villages. Next, visit Lo Lo Chai village, inhabited by the Lo Lo ethnic group.

Return to Dong Van for lunch around noon. In the afternoon, enjoy a trek to various villages in Dong Van, including Hau De, Ma Pia, and Ma Pang, following the Nho Que River that separates Vietnam from China. Return to Dong Van by evening.

Included:
English speaking guide
Meal: B, L, D
Private transportation
02 bottles of mineral water (500 ml)/pax/day
Hoa Cuong Hotel(Double Room)
Dong Van town, Dong Van district, Ha Giang , Vietnam

From Dong Van to Bao Lac, crossing Ma Pi Leng Pass, visiting Lo Lo & H'mong minority

After eating breakfast at your accommodation, we will drive across the breathtaking Ma Pi Leng Pass to go from Dong Van to Meo Vac. Beautiful views of the Nho Que River, limestone formations, and H'mong settlements tucked away in the highlands may be seen from this path. Proceed to Bao Lac, the home of the Black Lo Lo ethnic group. The French documentary "The Journey into Unknown Land," which was shot in Khuoi Khon hamlet, nine kilometers from Bao Lac, and featured rugby player Frederik Michalak, brought fame to the region. After checking into your accommodation, have lunch in Bao Lac town.

We will head to Coc Xa hamlet in the Na Van commune in the afternoon. Unlike Khuoi Khon, which has attracted more tourists since the documentary, this Lo Lo community has maintained its authenticity. Explore the paths and rice fields, stop by houses in the area, and converse with the inhabitants to discover more about their way of life and cultural customs. Go back to the town of Bao Lac and spend the night at your hotel.

Included:
English speaking guide
Meal: B, L, D
Private transportation
02 bottles of mineral water (500 ml)/pax/day
Duc Tai Hotel(Twin Room)
Bao Lac town, Cao Bang , Vietnam

Encounter San Chi at hidden hill village, exploring Hua Ma cave, stay overnight at Tay's homestay

Depart for Ba Be, traveling via Tinh Tuc. About 30 kilometers from Bao Lac, in Hung Dao Commune, lies a charming San Chi village. This secluded village is less frequented by travelers due to its hidden location behind a hill. The village, with its stilt houses perched on the mountainside, offers stunning views of the surrounding valley. To reach the village, you'll need to walk up a steep 2-kilometer incline, but the higher you go, the more spectacular the views become. Visit a local family to experience the authentic lifestyle of the San Chi ethnic group.

Continue your journey to Ba Be, where you’ll be captivated by the breathtaking scenery of mountains gracefully merging with rice terrace valleys. Stop to take photos or film the stunning landscapes as you go. Upon arrival in Ba Be, check into your accommodation in Pac Ngoi Village. After settling in, cycle through nearby Tay ethnic villages to Hua Ma Cave, located 5 kilometers from the village. Hua Ma Cave is renowned for its impressive stalactite and stalagmite formations. Return to your accommodation to unwind for the evening.

Included:
English speaking guide
Meal: B, L, D
Private transportation
Entrance fees
Bike: Ba Be
02 bottles of mineral water (500 ml)/pax/day
Ba Be Homestay (Sharing homestay)
Ba Be lake, Pac Ngoi village, Ba Be district, Bac Kan , Vietnam

Day 9 :
Ba Be

Relaxing boat trip, explore Puong cave and Dau Dang waterfall

In the morning, arrive to Buoc Lom Pier to embark on a boat trip along the Nang River, taking in the stunning forest scenery. The boat will pass through Puong Cave, where thousands of bats reside, and proceed to Dau Dang Waterfall.

Lunch will be provided at a local restaurant by the waterfall. In the afternoon, the boat will return to the lake, with a stop at the Fairy Pond situated within the ancient forest. Enjoy a relaxing boat ride around the lake, with the option to swim if the weather permits. Disembark around 4:00 PM. Spend the rest of the day at your leisure, taking in the sunset over the surrounding mountain ranges.

Included:
English speaking guide
Meal: B, L, D
Boat: Ba Be
Private transportation
Entrance fees
02 bottles of mineral water (500 ml)/pax/day
Ba Be Homestay (Sharing homestay)
Ba Be lake, Pac Ngoi village, Ba Be district, Bac Kan , Vietnam

Visiting Tan Trao historical relics & Tay community

Start your day with breakfast and fresh air in the national park, then head to Tan Trao, a significant site from the first Indochina War where the Viet Minh established their resistance base. Explore historical landmarks including the old banyan tree, Na Lua shack house, and Tan Trao communal house, where President Ho Chi Minh and his team resided and worked before the August 1945 Revolution.

Next, embark on a less-traveled route through Tay ethnic villages, characterized by stilt houses and surrounded by tea plantations, palm groves, and rice fields. Visit these villages to interact with locals and capture the picturesque scenery with plenty of photo opportunities.

Arrive back in Hanoi by late afternoon, check into your hotel, and enjoy some free time to unwind after your mountain adventure.

Included:
English speaking guide
Meal: B
Private transportation
Entrance fees
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 from Halong to Lan Ha bay, swimming & kayaking, cooking class

9:00 AM: Depart from your hotel in Hanoi’s Old Quarter. Enjoy a scenic two-and-a-half-hour drive to Lan Ha Bay via National Highway No5B, passing through charming villages and rice paddies in the Red River Delta. Stop for refreshments and a restroom break before continuing to the harbor around noon, where you’ll receive a warm welcome at the cruise reception.

12:00 PM: Meet the Peony Cruises team at Tuan Chau Port, Quang Ninh province.

12:30 PM: Transfer from the wharf to the luxurious Peony Cruises aboard our support vessel. You’ll receive a briefing on the day’s itinerary during this transfer.

1:00 PM: Enjoy a warm welcome aboard with fresh drinks and wet towels, followed by a gourmet lunch featuring local specialties. Set sail for Lan Ha Bay, one of the World’s Most Beautiful Bays.

3:30 PM: Explore the Tra Bau area, celebrated for its pristine beauty and scenic views. Kayak through the bay to discover the limestone islands, or relax in the Jacuzzi pool on the cruise.

5:30 PM - 6:30 PM: Attend a cooking demonstration to learn how to prepare Vietnamese spring rolls or head to the top deck to witness the stunning sunset over the Gulf of Tonkin. Enjoy Happy Hour - BUY ONE GET ONE FREE at the bar, making it a great time for sunset photography.

7:30 PM: Delight in a dinner of local dishes crafted by our talented chef, served in a romantic setting.

9:00 PM - 10:00 PM: Unwind with exotic cocktails at the sky bar (additional charges apply), or indulge in a spa treatment (optional). Relax on the top deck under the night sky or try squid fishing on the main deck.

Included:
Shuttle bus: Hanoi - Tuan Chau
English speaking guide (on board)
Meal: B, L, D
Entrance fees
Kayak: Halong
Leisure: Swimming,Squid fishing
Cooking class: Halong (on board) - cooking demonstration
02 bottles of mineral water (500 ml)/pax/day
Peony Cruise - 2D1N(Deluxe Balcony Cabin)
5/33B Pham Ngu Lao street, Hoan Kiem district, Ha Noi City, Vietnam

Exploring Trung Trang Cave, visiting Cat Ba National park, Transferring back to Hanoi for a night train to Hue

6:00 AM: Begin your day with an invigorating Tai Chi session at sunrise, taking in the early morning tranquility.

6:45 AM - 7:15 AM: Have breakfast while cruising back to Gia Luan jetty. (Breakfast timing may vary according to the actual schedule).

7:30 AM - 9:00 AM: Explore the Cat Ba World Biosphere with a visit to Trung Trang Cave. The transfer from Gia Luan to the cave takes about 30 minutes. Trung Trang Cave is renowned for its extensive stalactite formations and its geological and ecological significance.

9:30 AM: Return to the main boat to check out of your cabin. Make sure to place your luggage outside the cabin.

Savor an early lunch at the restaurant and settle any bar charges at the restaurant desk if needed.

10:30 AM - 11:00 AM: Disembark from the Peony Cruises and transfer to Tuan Chau Port.

11:30 AM - 12:00 PM: Arrive at Tuan Chau Port and prepare for departure.

Your driver will pick you up and you’ll travel back to Hanoi via Highway No5B, crossing the Red River Delta and passing through local villages. You’ll be dropped off at your hotel in Hanoi Old Quarter.

In the evening, you will be picked up from your hotel for a short transfer to Hanoi Train Station. Board your overnight train to Hue for a traditional rail journey.

Included:
English speaking guide (on board)
Meal: B, L
Private transportation
Entrance fees
Leisure: Morning Tai Chi
02 bottles of mineral water (500 ml)/pax/day
Train:SE3 (Hanoi - Hue) / 19:20 - 08:40 - Deluxe( 4 berths / cabin) / 06 tickets

Full day for Hue city discovery, Perfume River boat trip, excursion to Tien Non, Thanh Tien, Sinh village, the most well-known Thien Mu pagoda and Hue Citadel

In the morning, your driver and tour guide will meet you at the Hue railway station, escort you to your hotel, and assist with checking in your luggage. After settling in, embark on a captivating exploration of the historic city of Hue.

Start your adventure with a scenic boat ride on the Huong River (also known as the Perfume River), heading towards the villages east of the city. This leisurely journey offers a glimpse into the traditional riverbank lifestyle. Disembark at Tien Non village and cycle through the charming neighboring villages of Sinh, Thanh Tien, and Tien Non. Immerse yourself in the local daily routines and interact with the residents.

In Tien Non, visit the farms and vegetable gardens, then proceed to a local family worship building to experience traditional practices. Continue to Thanh Tien village, renowned for its 400-year-old tradition of making paper flowers. These vibrant creations are used during the New Year festival to honor ancestors. Meet Mr. Hieu, a skilled craftsman, and learn the art of paper flower making. Next, explore Sinh village, famous for its 400-year-old printing techniques. Mr. Phuoc will demonstrate traditional printing methods, and you'll have the opportunity to pick up some unique souvenirs. Afterward, return to Hue by boat.

In the afternoon, visit Thien Mu Pagoda, one of Hue’s oldest and most significant pagodas, established in 1601. Admire its impressive octagonal tower and enjoy panoramic views of the Perfume River.

Next, explore the Hue Citadel, the last vestige of Vietnam’s ancient imperial capital and a major historical site. Modeled after the Vauban fortress, the Citadel is divided into three sections: Kinh Thanh (the capital), Hoang Thanh (the royal city), and Cam Thanh (the Forbidden City). Key highlights include the Flag Tower, the South Gate, the Palace of Supreme Harmony, the Dynasty Temple area, and the residential quarters.

In the late afternoon, return to your hotel to relax and reflect on your day’s discoveries.

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

A short trip to Khai Dinh Tomb before traveling to Hoian, passing by Hai Van pass, Cham sculpture museum. Hoi An half day city

7:30 AM: Depart from your hotel for a visit to Khai Dinh King's tomb, an elaborate mausoleum built from 1920 to 1931 on Chau Tru Hill. The tomb is notable for its blend of Eastern and Western architectural styles. Climb a hundred steps to reach the top, where you can marvel at the detailed porcelain decor, a grand ceiling painting, and a small museum of royal artifacts. The descent provides a sweeping view of the tomb and its surroundings.

Proceed to travel via Hai Van Pass and Mandarin Road to Hoi An. Take a break at the pass's summit to take in the stunning views of Da Nang's city and the water. When you get to Da Nang, make time to see the Cham Museum, which is home to the world's most significant collections of Cham artifacts. After that, take a stroll along My Khe Beach to see the enormous Goodness of Mercy sculptures within the Linh Ung Pagoda. After taking pictures of the fisherman near the shore, drive down the coast to the historic town of Hoi An.

Investigate the town in the afternoon. From the 15th to the 19th centuries, Hoi An was one of the most characteristic South-East Asian commerce ports, and its Old Town is still intact. Numerous historical structures, daily activities, religion, and the genuine way of life of the locals all reflect the traded cultures.

The first place to visit is Cam Pho, which is among Hoi An's oldest community homes. Its construction in the form of a Chinese character designates it as a nation dedicated to religion, trade, and cross-cultural interaction between the local community and Chinese and Japanese traders.

Walk slowly on to the Chua Cau, also known as the Japanese Covered Bridge, which was constructed in the 17th century to connect the Chinese districts with the Japanese area. It is the icon of the city of Hoi An. The previous four centuries have seen a meticulous preservation of the bridge's original architecture.

Next, we visit Quan Thang Ancient House, which is among the most genuine old residences in Hoi An. Its exquisite architecture and vibrant, oriental-style sculptures were created by skilled artisans from the renowned Kim Bong Carpentry Village. A clear view of the Hoi An family's daily life is provided by the residence.

Our final destination for the day is Phuc Kien, also known as the Fujian Assembly Hall. Constructed in the 17th century, it serves as a meeting place for locals, tourists, and traders from the Fujian region of China. In addition, it is a place of worship for the goddess Thien Hau. Upon visiting, you will be in awe of the intricately carved dragons in the main chamber, the colorful fountains in the courtyard, and the elaborate gates around the estate.

Return to the hotel after exploring the city on your own.

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

Day 15 :
Hoi An

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

Meet at your hotel and begin your bike ride to Hoi An pier. Take the ferry across the Thu Bon River to Kim Bong village, where you’ll enjoy the refreshing air and scenic views of the riverbanks.

The wood carvings of Kim Bong village are well known. The craftsmen's distinctive craft was developed by incorporating Chinese and Japanese traditions, which they then incorporated into their original northern Vietnamese skills. Explore the area on a bicycle, meet the locals, and appreciate the creativity of a carpenter by stopping by his workshop. As mementos, you might also purchase some wooden things that are handcrafted.

After that, cycle through Tra Nhieu hamlet and experience the rural environment of central Vietnam by passing through rice fields and bamboo bridges. Get to meet the local craftspeople, such Mr. Kha who creates bamboo baskets, Ms. Duoc who weaves mats, and Mr. Huynh Ri, who is renowned for his traditional workmanship. Rice fields, palm groves, and working farmers surround the route.

Take a boat trip on the Thu Bon River from Tra Nhieu to Cam Thanh hamlet. Admire the water palm trees and fishing farms as you travel. Get on a circular bamboo sampan basket boat in Cam Thanh and embark on an enjoyable crab-catching expedition through the palm grove. This is a soothing diversion from riding a bike.

Visit the fisherman Mr. Phong's house afterwards to unwind with green tea and a foot massage utilizing herbs from the garden. Take part in cooking some of the village's specialties, such Tam Huu, Hoi An spring rolls, crispy pancakes (with pork, shrimp, and beansprouts), and grilled fish in banana leaf. Savor the food that you have prepared.

Afternoon, get back to your hotel.

Included:
English speaking guide
Meal: B, L
Boat: Tra Nhieu - Cam Thanh,Cam Thanh
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. Then fly to Ho Chi Minh City

8:00 AM: Your guide and driver will pick you up from your hotel at 8:00 AM to start a half-day trip to My Son, the sacred valley of the Champa Kingdom located 40 km from Hoi An. This historic site, once a major religious and cultural center, may have also been a burial ground for Cham kings.

My Son, a UNESCO World Heritage site, boasts 70 ancient temples and towers crafted from brick and stone between the 7th and 13th centuries. As you explore this remarkable site, your guide will delve into its rich historical and cultural background, and you will be treated to a traditional Champa dance performance that adds an extra layer of cultural immersion.

After your visit to My Son, you will be transferred to Da Nang Airport for your flight to Ho Chi Minh City. Upon arrival at Tan Son Nhat Airport, a professional tour guide and driver will be waiting to greet you. During the 30-minute drive to the city center, your guide will provide a concise overview of Ho Chi Minh City, including its major attractions, dining options, transportation tips, and cultural insights.

Upon reaching the city center, you will be transferred to your hotel, where you can unwind and prepare for the rest of your stay in Ho Chi Minh City.

Note: Hotel check in time at 14.00

Included:
English speaking guide
Meal: B, L
Private transportation
Entrance fees
02 bottles of mineral water (500 ml)/pax/day
Flight :VN143 (DAD - SGN) - (Direct) / 20:10 - 22:05 - Vietnam Airlines - Economy / 06 tickets
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: Begin your day with a pickup from your hotel and head to the Independence Palace. This historic site, once the residence and office of the South Vietnamese President, features an underground bunker, restored chambers from the late 1960s and early 1970s, and the iconic North Vietnamese tank that famously entered in 1975.

Next, take a leisurely stroll to the Saigon Notre Dame Cathedral. Built between 1863 and 1880, this striking cathedral is a symbol of the city and a fine example of French colonial architecture.

Continue your exploration with a walk down Nguyen Hue Walking Street and visit the Central Post Office, designed by Gustave Eiffel. This active post office is renowned for its stunning interior design.
Afterward, take a short trip to Binh Tay Market in Saigon's Chinatown. This bustling market offers a diverse array of goods, from food to clothing and souvenirs. The food court is an excellent place to sample local street food.

Your next stop is Quan Am Pagoda, one of the city’s oldest Guan Yin shrines, which blends Taoist elements with the traditional worship of the "Queen of Heaven."
Conclude your tour with a visit to the Traditional Medicine Museum (FITO), where you can explore ancient instruments, mystical remedies, and preserved medicinal plants.

Return to your hotel to end your day of 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: Set out from your hotel to visit the Cu Chi Tunnels, a prominent historical site from the Vietnam War. The Cu Chi Tunnels form an extensive underground network over 250 km long, used by the Viet Cong in their fight against American forces. These tunnels were dug over a span of twenty years using only basic tools like pickaxes and shovels. The tour includes access to certain parts of the tunnels and a visit to the nearby Ben Duoc Memorial Temple, a lesser-known site built in 1993 to honor Vietnamese casualties.

Following this, visit the Cao Dai Temple, an important spiritual site in Vietnam. Caodaism is a unique religion that blends Confucianism, Buddhism, Taoism, and Roman Catholicism. You might have the chance to attend the midday mass.

Lunch will be served at a local restaurant, after which you’ll return to your hotel in the afternoon.

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: Start your day with a hotel pick-up for a transfer to Ben Tre, renowned in the Mekong Delta for its coconut candy.

Arriving at Hung Vuong Pier, you will take a boat ride along the Ben Tre River to observe the local way of life. Continue your journey on a smaller canal to Nhon Thanh Village, where you can enjoy fresh fruit tastings. Ride a bike (or tuk tuk) along scenic paths through coconut plantations, rice fields, and vegetable gardens.

Savor a lunch featuring elephant ear fish in the village. Afterward, take a short walk to delve deeper into the local lifestyle. Next, enjoy a boat ride through a canal shaded by lush palm trees. Travel for about an hour to Cai Lay, where you will be greeted warmly by your homestay host. Participate in a cooking session to make Banh Xeo Nam Bo, a traditional regional specialty.

You’ll have dinner and spend the night at the 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

Enjoy breakfast at the homestay before setting out on a bike ride (1 to 1.5 hours) along the path from Dong Hoa to Tam Binh. During this ride, you’ll pass by durian, sapota, and longan gardens, and have the chance to meet local people and explore the village market. Return to the homestay for some refreshments.

(Optional Extension: For a more immersive experience, you can take a 1-hour walk with a local guide and then cycle to Ngu Hiep Island, where the fertile alluvium of the Mekong River has created lush gardens. If biking isn’t preferable, you can request a motorbike and ride pillion with our guide.)

Afterward, transfer to Long Xuyen with a stop in Sa Dec. Visit the Kien An Cung Pagoda and Huynh Thuy Le's house, famously featured in Marguerite Duras' novel L’Amant – The Lover. Explore the vibrant local market in Sa Dec, known for its variety of fruits, vegetables, and fish. Continue to Long Xuyen to visit the Cao Dai Temple and a crocodile farm before checking into your hotel for the night.

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 floating market and floating village in Long Xuyen which are animated and authentic on a small tributary of the Mekong River.
Discover the daily activities of people living by the river. Enjoy a boat trip to Cu Lao Ong Ho where there is a small museum about our famous president Ton Duc Thang. Take a bike ride on the island and enjoy the beauty of the peaceful landscapes.

Take the road back to Saigon and check in your hotel in 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

Transferring to airport for flights to next destinations

Private driver will pick you up at the hotel lobby for about 30 minutes to Tan Son Nhat 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.

In the rush hour (07:00 – 08:30 AM and 16:30 – 18:30 PM), it takes around 1 hour from city center to Tan Son Nhat airport.

Included:
Meal: B
Private transportation
02 bottles of mineral water (500 ml)/pax/day

Cost Includes

  • English speaking tour guide following itinerary
  • All entrance fees and tickets mention on itinerary
  • Selected Accommodations with daily breakfast
  • Cruise: Peony Cruise - 2D1N
  • Boat: Ba Be, Sinh - Tien Non, Tra Nhieu - Cam Thanh, Cam Thanh, Ben Tre, Long Xuyen
  • Private car following itinerary
  • Shuttle bus: Hanoi - Tuan Chau
  • Train: SE3 (Hanoi - Hue)
  • Flight Ticket: VN143 DAD - SGN (Vietnam Airlines - Economy)
  • Meal: Breakfast: 21, Lunch: 16, Dinner: 09
  • Bike: Ba Be, Hue, Hoi An, Ben Tre, Long Xuyen
  • Kayak: Halong
  • Leisure: Water puppet, Swimming, Squid fishing, Morning Tai Chi, Foot massage
  • Tuk Tuk: Ben Tre
  • Cooking class: Halong (on board) - cooking demonstration, Cam Thanh, Ben Tre homestay
  • Service charges and Taxes

Cost Excludes

  • International flight from/to your country
  • Travel insurance
  • Personal expenses
  • Tipping and Gratuities
  • Other not mentioned in the program
What is included in the tour package?

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The package includes accommodations, daily breakfast, transportation throughout the itinerary, guided tours in various languages, entrance fees to attractions, and select meals as per the itinerary.

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How does the private tour work?

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As a private tour, you have the flexibility to customize your itinerary and activities to suit your group’s preferences. You’ll have exclusive access to your guide and vehicle.

 

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Is this tour suitable for solo travelers?

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Yes! Solo travelers are more than welcome, and we will provide a fulfilling experience tailored to your needs.

 

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When is the best time to take this tour?

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The ideal times to visit Vietnam are from September to November and March to May, as the weather is generally pleasant across the regions included in the tour.

 

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What should I pack for the trip?

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We recommend packing light, breathable clothing suitable for warm weather, comfortable walking shoes, a light jacket for cooler areas, and essentials like sunscreen and insect repellent.

 

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How do I book this tour?

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You can book the tour directly through our website or by contacting our customer service team. A deposit is typically required to confirm your reservation.

 

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From Hanoi to Saigon: Explore Vietnam Top To Tail | Authentic Tour – 22 Days
From $1,665
/ Adult
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  • No Booking Fees
  • Professional Local Guide