From Hanoi to Saigon: The Best Highlights of Vietnam | Authentic Tour – 11 Days

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

Continue the day with an walking tour. 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.

End at your hotel.

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

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

9:00 AM: Start your day with a guided tour pick-up at the Temple of Literature, a gem from the 11th century established by the Ly dynasty to revere Confucius and educate the royal lineage. Enjoy a picturesque walk through the temple grounds to the Khue Van Cac, a landmark symbolizing scholarly achievement. Admire the ancient "stone steles" that commemorate Vietnam’s brightest students, and delve into the history of Quoc Tu Giam, the nation’s pioneering university.

Proceed to the Ethnology Museum, a cultural haven closed on Mondays. Spend around two hours exploring its extensive collection that vividly portrays the diverse ethnic tapestry of Vietnam through traditional homes, artifacts, garments, and musical instruments. This museum offers a comprehensive insight into the cultural richness of the nation.

In the afternoon, wander through Hanoi's elegant French Quarter, a charming area reminiscent of Paris with its grand squares, ornate government buildings, and tree-shaded boulevards. Admire the imposing exterior of Ho Chi Minh’s mausoleum, then meander through the botanical gardens to the Presidential Palace, which once served as Ho Chi Minh’s residence and office. Cap off this segment with a visit to the iconic One-Pillar Pagoda, a unique architectural marvel. This exploration typically takes between one and two hours, depending on the crowd.

Return to your hotel for a brief rest before heading out for a captivating evening experience. Attend a traditional water puppet show, a distinctive Vietnamese art form dating back to the 11th century. Watch as intricate puppets glide across the water, enacting scenes from Vietnamese folklore and daily life, complemented by traditional live music.

Wrap up your day with a return to your hotel, reflecting on a day filled with cultural discovery and historical wonder.

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

Cruising from Halong to Lan Ha bay, swimming & kayaking, cooking class

9:00 AM: Start your day with a pickup from your hotel in the Hanoi Old Quarter. Embark on a two-and-a-half-hour drive to Lan Ha Bay via National Highway No5B, traveling through picturesque villages and rice fields in the Red River Delta. Take a break for refreshments and restroom facilities en route. Arrive at the harbor around noon and enjoy a warm welcome at the cruise reception.

12:00 PM: At Tuan Chau Port in Quang Ninh province, you will be greeted by the Peony Cruises crew.

12:30 PM: Transfer to our support vessel for a scenic journey across the bay to board Peony Cruises. During this transfer, you will receive a briefing on the cruise itinerary.

1:00 PM: Once aboard, enjoy a refreshing welcome drink and a cool towel. Savor a special lunch featuring fresh, flavorful dishes as we cruise towards Lan Ha Bay, known for its breathtaking beauty.

3:30 PM: Visit the Tra Bau area, renowned for its untouched natural beauty and scenic seascapes. Take advantage of this opportunity for kayaking to explore the limestone islands or unwind in the Jacuzzi pool on Peony Cruises while enjoying the stunning emerald waters.

5:30 PM - 6:30 PM: Engage in a hands-on cooking demonstration where you'll learn to make famous Vietnamese spring rolls. If cooking isn't your thing, you can head up to the top deck to enjoy the magnificent sunset over the Gulf of Tonkin. Take advantage of our Happy Hour special—BUY ONE GET ONE FREE at the bar—and snap some stunning sunset photos over Lan Ha Bay.

7:30 PM: Relish a flavorful dinner featuring authentic local cuisine, prepared with care by our talented chef, in a charming and romantic dining setting.

9:00 PM - 10:00 PM: Sip on exotic cocktails and drinks at the sky bar (surcharge applies), or indulge in a relaxing spa treatment (optional). Enjoy a peaceful evening on the top deck under the illuminated sky, or try your luck with 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 flight to Danang - Hoi An

6:00 AM: Start your day with an invigorating Tai Chi session as you watch the sun rise over the horizon.

6:45 AM - 7:15 AM: Enjoy a breakfast served while the cruise makes its way back to Gia Luan jetty. (Breakfast timing may be adjusted based on the actual itinerary.)

7:30 AM - 9:00 AM: Embark on a tour of Cat Ba World Biosphere. A 30-minute transfer from Gia Luan takes you to Trung Trang Cave, one of the most impressive caves on Cat Ba Island. The cave features thousands of uniquely shaped stalactites and represents a typical cave ecosystem.

9:30 AM: Return to the main boat to check out of your cabin and place your luggage outside.
Enjoy an early lunch at the restaurant and settle any bar bills (if applicable).

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

11:30 AM - 12:00 PM: Be ready for departure at Tuan Chau port.

A driver will meet you at the harbor for the 2.5-hour journey back to Hanoi via the new No5B highway, passing through the Red River Delta and local villages. You’ll be dropped off at your hotel in the Hanoi Old Quarter.

A private driver will pick you up from your hotel lobby in the Hanoi Old Quarter for a 45-minute drive to Noi Bai Airport (international or domestic terminal as requested). We appreciate your visit to our city.

Note: Please arrive at the airport 3 hours prior for international flights and 2 hours for domestic flights.

Upon landing at Da Nang Airport, a professional tour guide and driver will greet you at the pickup area.

You will be driven for about 30-45 minutes to your accommodation, with your guide providing insights into the city's highlights, dining options, traffic, and culture.

Enjoy a scenic drive along the coastline to your hotel, where you can check in and unwind.

Included:
English speaking guide
Meal: B, L
Private transportation
Entrance fees
Leisure: Morning Tai Chi
02 bottles of mineral water (500 ml)/pax/day
Flight :VN181 (HAN - DAD) - (Direct) / 16:10 - 17:40 - 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: Begin your day with a pick-up from your hotel in Hoi An’s town center. Your first stop is Cam Pho, one of the city's oldest community houses. This historical gem, constructed in the shape of a Chinese character, embodies Hoi An’s rich heritage of worship, trade, and cultural exchange with Chinese and Japanese traders.

From Cam Pho, enjoy a leisurely walk to the iconic Japanese Covered Bridge, or Chua Cau. Built in the 17th century to unite the Chinese and Japanese quarters, this well-preserved bridge is a timeless symbol of Hoi An’s historical connections.

As you wander through the town, you'll get a genuine glimpse into local life. Visit the Quan Thang Ancient House, a quintessential example of Hoi An’s architectural beauty. This well-preserved building features intricate woodwork by master carpenters from the Kim Bong carpentry village, offering a window into traditional family life in Hoi An.

Next, explore the Phuc Kien (Fujian) Assembly Hall before boarding a ferry to Kim Bong village across the Thu Bon River. Enjoy the scenic boat ride, taking in the tranquil riverside views and fresh air.

Kim Bong is renowned for its wood carving artistry. Originally influenced by northern Vietnamese techniques, local artisans have integrated Chinese and Japanese styles to develop a unique craft. Cycle through the village to observe daily life, visit a carpenter’s workshop, and perhaps pick up some handcrafted wooden souvenirs.

Continue your bike ride to Tra Nhieu village, nestled in Vietnam’s central region. Here, you'll have the opportunity to meet local artisans such as Mr. Kha, who creates bamboo baskets; Ms. Duoc, who weaves traditional mats; and Mr. Huynh Ri, a shipbuilder. The journey through rice paddies, palm groves, and rural scenes will offer a true taste of the local countryside.

From Tra Nhieu, take a boat ride on the Thu Bon River to Cam Thanh hamlet. Along the way, admire the picturesque fishing farms and lush water palm trees.

Upon arriving in Cam Thanh, unwind at Mr. Phong’s home. Sip on refreshing green tea and enjoy a soothing foot massage with herbs from his garden. Next, dive into a cooking session where you'll prepare 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, then savor your homemade creations.

Conclude your afternoon with a serene ride in a circular bamboo basket boat through the water palm grove. This peaceful cruise offers a perfect finale to a day of exploration and culinary delights.

Return to your hotel, reflecting on a day rich with cultural immersion, scenic beauty, and delicious local cuisine.

Included:
English speaking guide
Meal: B, L
Boat: Tra Nhieu - Cam Thanh,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

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

8:00 AM: Take the scenic sea route from Da Nang to Hue. In Da Nang, carve out some time to explore the Cham Museum, which houses the world’s most comprehensive collection of Cham relics. Next, take a leisurely walk down to My Khe Beach and marvel at the grand statues of the Goodness of Mercy at Linh Ung Pagoda. Snap some photos of the local fishermen casting their nets along the shore before continuing your journey down the coast to the historic city of Hue.

Don’t miss the breathtaking views at the summit of Hai Van Pass, where the ocean spreads out before you in a spectacular panorama.

Upon arriving in Hue, enjoy a delicious lunch before delving into the city’s rich history at Thien Mu Pagoda. This ancient pagoda, dating back to 1601, is a spiritual beacon of the city, renowned for its towering octagonal structure and stunning vistas over the Perfume River.

Continue your exploration of Hue by visiting the Hue Citadel, a remarkable remnant of Vietnam’s imperial past. Modeled after the fortifications of Vauban, the Citadel is a grand complex divided into three main areas: the Forbidden City (Cam Thanh), the Imperial City (Hoang Thanh), and the Capital City (Kinh Thanh). Among its highlights are the impressive flag tower, the South Gate, the Palace of Supreme Harmony, the Dynasty Temple area, and the residential quarters.

After a day full of exploration, check into your hotel and settle in for a restful evening in the historic heart of Vietnam.

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. Then take a Flight to Ho Chi Minh City

8:00 AM: Begin your day with a serene boat ride on the Huong River, or Perfume River, embarking on a royal-style excursion to explore the easternmost villages of Hue. Glide along the tranquil waters and immerse yourself in the traditional lifestyle that thrives on both banks of this lyrical river. Upon reaching Tien Non Village, disembark and hop on a bicycle for an enriching ride through Tien Non, Thanh Tien, and Sinh villages. This journey will offer a genuine glimpse into the local way of life.

In Tien Non Village, observe locals as they tend to their fields and farms. Visit the village's family worship house to experience their cultural practices firsthand. Next, cycle to Thanh Tien Village, renowned for its 400-year-old tradition of crafting artificial paper flowers. These flowers are made as part of the New Year's celebrations to honor ancestors. Meet the skilled artisan, Mr. Hieu, and learn the intricate art of paper flower making from him. Proceed to Sinh Village, the birthplace of Hue’s traditional folklore prints. Here, Mr. Phuoc will guide you through the traditional printing techniques that have been passed down through generations, leaving you with beautiful souvenirs to remember your visit.

In the afternoon, make your way to the Khai Dinh King’s tomb, perched atop Chau Tru Hill. Built over 11 years (1920-1931), this tomb is a unique fusion of Western and Eastern architectural styles. Ascend the hundred steps to the worship palace at the summit, where you’ll find a small museum of royal relics, an impressive ceiling artwork, and intricate decorations featuring charming porcelain pieces. The descent offers a panoramic view of the tomb and its surroundings.

As the day winds down, head to the airport for your flight to Ho Chi Minh City. Upon arrival at Tan Son Nhat Airport, you will be greeted by a knowledgeable tour guide and driver who will escort you to the city center. During the 30-minute drive, your guide will provide an overview of Ho Chi Minh City's landmarks, and offer insights into local dining, drinking, traffic, and cultural practices.

Upon arrival at your hotel, check in and settle in for the start of your next adventure.

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 :VN1375 (HUI - SGN) - (Direct) / 17:45 - 19:25 - 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: Move from your hotel and head to the Independence Palace, the historic seat of South Vietnamese presidents. Explore the impressive five-story structure, which includes the dramatic tank that stormed the palace in 1975, marking the end of the Vietnam War. You'll find rooms meticulously preserved from the 1960s and 1970s, along with a hidden bunker below.

Afterwards, take a pleasant walk to Saigon's Notre Dame Cathedral, a striking example of French colonial architecture built between 1863 and 1880. Its grandeur and historical charm make it a must-see landmark.

From there, head towards Nguyen Hue Walking Street and admire the Saigon Central Post Office, designed by the renowned Gustave Eiffel. This beautifully restored building continues to operate as a post office, showcasing its elegant interior and historical significance.

Next, drive to Binh Tay Market in the lively Chinatown district. This bustling market is a hub for all things local, from fresh produce to clothing and unique souvenirs. Enjoy a taste of the city's street food and local specialties at the market’s vibrant food court.

Continue to Quan Am Pagoda, one of the oldest temples in the city. Dedicated to Guan Yin and reflecting Taoist influences, this serene spot offers a peaceful retreat and insights into local spiritual practices.

Finally, visit the FITO Museum of Traditional Medicine, where you can discover an intriguing collection of ancient herbal remedies, magical potions, and historical medical tools.

At the end of this rich and varied day, you'll be returned to your hotel, where you can unwind and reflect on your experiences.

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: Leave your hotel to visit the Cu Chi Tunnels, one of the most significant sites from the Vietnam War.

Explore this intricate underground network, which stretches over 250 kilometers and served as a formidable stronghold for the Viet Cong against American forces. The tunnels were meticulously dug using only pickaxes and shovels over a span of twenty years. During your visit, you'll have the chance to enter some of these historic tunnels and experience firsthand the conditions faced by those who lived and fought within them.

Additionally, visit the Ben Duoc Memorial Temple, a poignant tribute to the Vietnamese soldiers who perished at Cu Chi. This memorial, established in 1993, offers a more serene and less frequented perspective on the area’s wartime history.

Next, head to the Cao Dai Temple, one of Vietnam’s most revered religious sites. Cao Dai is a unique Vietnamese religion that blends elements of Taoism, Buddhism, Confucianism, and Roman Catholicism. If your timing aligns, you might witness the midday mass, a vibrant and colorful ritual that reflects the temple’s eclectic spiritual practices.

Enjoy lunch at a local eatery, savoring the regional flavors before returning to your hotel in the afternoon to relax and unwind.

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

Traveling to Mekong, enjoy boat trip, biking, interacting with local people in Ben Tre

8:00 AM: Meet your driver and tour guide at your hotel for a scenic journey to Ben Tre, a charming gem in the Mekong Delta renowned for its coconut candy production. Upon arrival at Hung Vuong dock, embark on a boat tour along the Ben Tre River to witness the vibrant daily life of the locals.

Continue your exploration by taking a boat ride through the tranquil canals to Nhon Thanh Village. Here, you’ll have the opportunity to sample an array of fresh tropical fruits as you soak in the serene surroundings.

Hop on a bike or Tuk Tuk for a leisurely ride along narrow paths that wind through picturesque villages, showcasing lush vegetable gardens, expansive rice fields, and sprawling coconut groves. Enjoy a delicious lunch featuring elephant ear fish, a local delicacy, and take a stroll through the village to gain deeper insights into the area’s traditional way of life.

Next, embark on a peaceful boat trip along a narrow canal enveloped by wild palm trees, offering a serene and immersive experience of the Mekong Delta’s natural beauty.

In the late afternoon, make your way back to Saigon, concluding your delightful day in the Mekong Delta.

Included:
English speaking guide
Meal: B, L
Boat: Ben Tre
Private transportation
Bike: Ben Tre
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