From Hanoi to Saigon: Vietnam Culture and History Package | Authentic Tour – 21 Days

Welcome to Hanoi, enjoy a walking tour in the old quarter Landing at Noi Bai Airport, you will be warmly welcomed by our tour guide and driver at the pickup area. Enjoy a 45-minute drive to the heart of Hanoi’s Old Quarter, during which you’ll receive an overview of the city’s top attractions, cultural practices, traffic conditions, and local cuisine. Once you arrive at your hotel, check in and take a moment to rest and rejuvenate. 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

Exploring the center of culture & education Van Mieu, outstanding museum of ethnology, visiting French Quarter and discovering Old town 9:00 AM: Head to the Temple of Literature, a venerable site founded in the 11th century during the Ly dynasty. This ancient temple was dedicated to Confucius and served as a prestigious academy for royal offspring. Enjoy a serene walk through the beautiful gardens to Khue Van Cac, the emblematic pavilion of Hanoi. Admire the historic "stone steles" listing the names of notable scholars and explore Quoc Tu Giam, which is recognized as Vietnam’s first national university. Continue to the Ethnology Museum (note: closed on Mondays), which offers an in-depth look into Vietnam's diverse cultural heritage. Spend about two hours exploring exhibits that showcase traditional costumes, tools, musical instruments, and the architectural styles of various ethnic groups. In the afternoon, immerse yourself in the charm of Hanoi’s French Quarter, often referred to as "little Paris." Wander along its elegant tree-lined boulevards and grand squares. Visit Ho Chi Minh’s Mausoleum from the outside, then enjoy a leisurely stroll through the botanical gardens to see the Presidential Palace, where Ho Chi Minh once resided and worked. Proceed to the One-Pillar Pagoda, a unique and historic site, for a glimpse of one of Hanoi’s most iconic structures. Depending on the group size, this exploration can take between one and two hours. Conclude your afternoon with a visit to a traditional water puppet show, a captivating form of performance art that originated in the 11th century. Experience how colorful puppets dance on water to tell stories of Vietnamese life, culture, and mythology, accompanied by live traditional music. Return to your hotel to end a day of cultural exploration and engaging experiences. 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

Enjoying a day to tea plantation, Muong & Thai culture regions 8:00 AM: Begin your day with a pickup from your Hanoi hotel by your tour guide and driver, then travel to Muong Lo via Thanh Son. Muong Lo is one of the four significant fertile valleys in the Northwest, including Muong Thanh in Dien Bien Phu, Muong Tac in Phu Yen, and Muong Than in Than Uyen, where the Thai ethnic group is the majority. The village features traditional wooden stilt houses and is known for cultivating water rice. Drive along National Road 32 next to the Da River, a vital river in the region. In Thanh Son, stop to explore a scenic tea plantation and stroll through the Muong ethnic group's stilt-house villages, which are well-preserved and largely free from Chinese cultural influence. Arriving in Nghia Lo, you can either walk or bike through the Thai village, taking in the beautiful rice field landscapes and traditional stilt houses while engaging with the hospitable local community. Included: English speaking guide Meal: B, L, D Private transportation Bike: Nghia Lo 02 bottles of mineral water (500 ml)/pax/day Nghia Lo Homestay (Ms Loan) (Sharing homestay) Nghia Lo town, Yen Bai , Vietnam

Exploring the best of terrace in Mu Cang Chai, La Pan Tan, Tu Le, immersing into Thai, Dao, Dzay culture After breakfast, explore a local market in Nghia Lo and then proceed to Mu Cang Chai via Tu Le. Known for its extraordinary rice terraces, Mu Cang Chai is celebrated as having some of the most beautiful rice fields in the world. In 2007, the rice terraces at Che Cu Nha, De Su Phinh, and La Pan Tan were officially recognized as national treasures. You will traverse the steep area at Nghia Lo's exit, where the Dao ethnic community resides. On the way, make a stop to snap pictures and chat with the locals. Reach Tu Le. You may go to the valley where the Thai people live in stilt huts and have some unique experiences that let you fully immerse yourself in the way of life here. Proceed to Khau Pha Pass in the afternoon for a breathtaking overview of the rice terrace valley. After that, the vehicle will transport you to La Pan Tan, a well-known location for photographers. You will be in awe of the exquisite works of art on rice terraces produced by Hmong peasant artisans over many generations. Take in the breathtaking scenery as you go from La Pan Tan to Mam Xoi. At the end of the day, check into your lodging. Included: English speaking guide Meal: B, L, D Private transportation 02 bottles of mineral water (500 ml)/pax/day Mu Cang Chai Homestay (Sharing homestay) Mu Cang Chai district, Yen Bai , Vietnam

Passing Black & White Thai minority, Visiting historical relics in Dien Bien Phu 7:30 AM: Embark on your journey to Dien Bien Phu via Tuan Giao, where you’ll enjoy captivating views of rice terraces and mountainous terrain. From Than Uyen, follow the scenic and quiet National Road 279 to Tuan Giao. When you reach Ban Chat Reservoir, a sizable body of water that will follow you for 20 kilometers, take a quick stroll to take in the peace and breathtaking scenery. Proceed driving across the Da River, one of the most significant rivers in the north, to reach the Pa Uon Bridge in Quynh Nhai. Return to get amazing pictures and mingle with the locals. After arriving at Tuan Giao at midday, eat lunch at a neighborhood eatery. Proceed towards Dien Bien Phu, passing through the Black Thai and White Thai ethnic groups' territory. Dien Bien Phu is positioned strategically close to the borders of China, Laos, and Vietnam. This 18km long and 6km broad valley is encircled by mountains rising to a height of 1000m. In 1954, the major battleground between the French invasion army and the Viet Minh was the valley. Reach Dien Bien Phu around 15:30, and then proceed to the War Museum on A1 Hill, which provides a command post perspective over the basin, a tribute to the French expeditionary force troops, and a symbol of peace between France and Vietnam. After checking into your accommodation, unwind. Included: English speaking guide Meal: B, L, D Private transportation Entrance fees 02 bottles of mineral water (500 ml)/pax/day A1 Hotel(Double / Twin Room) 3 Hoang Cong Chat street, Dien Bien Phu city, Dien Bien , Vietnam

Scenic driving to visit Kho Mu people, Thai minorities After breakfast, head to the local market near the historic Muong Thanh Bridge before traveling 210 kilometers to Lai Chau, which is home to several ethnic groups, including the Kho Mu. Lai Chau is located near Dien Bien Phu. Originally from Northern Laos, the Kho Mu, numbering about 60,000, reside on the hill slopes between the Hmong in the highlands and the Thai in the lower areas. The region is known for the colorful attire of its Hmong inhabitants. Travel through Muong Cha and Muong Lay, where you'll see local women dressed in vibrant traditional outfits and adorned with silver or gold jewelry. Make stops at different villages to interact with the locals and experience their genuine way of life. Arrive in Muong Lay, a settlement for Thai villagers displaced by the Lai Chau-Son La hydroelectric project. Here, you may choose to enjoy a tea break. The route offers scenic views of the Nam Na River and beautiful landscapes. Visit Thai and Hmong villages along the way before arriving in Lai Chau City in the late afternoon. Check into your hotel and relax. Included: English speaking guide Meal: B, L, D Private transportation 02 bottles of mineral water (500 ml)/pax/day Muong Thanh Lai Chau Hotel(Deluxe Room) 113 Le Duan street, Lai Chau city, Lai Chau , Vietnam

Easy trekking in Na Tam, visiting Laotian & Lu people Set off for Sapa, traveling through the majestic Hoang Lien Son mountain range. After departing Tam Duong, we'll make a detour to explore Na Tam Village, home to the Laotian and Lu people. The village offers a tranquil setting and showcases traditional practices, including the unique black teeth and indigo clothing of local women, decorated with silver coins. Enjoy a leisurely walk and engage with the local community. Proceed with your journey to Sapa, crossing the Hoang Lien Son Pass (O Quy Ho Pass), Vietnam's longest and highest pass at 54 km and 2,047 meters. Take a break at the pass summit to enjoy the stunning vistas and capture memorable photographs. Arrive in Sapa in the afternoon. First discovered by the French in 1903, Sapa is renowned for its temperate climate and scenic beauty, including lush rice valleys and the culturally rich Black Hmong, Red Dao, and Dzay ethnic groups. Included: English speaking guide Meal: B, L Private transportation 02 bottles of mineral water (500 ml)/pax/day Sapa Elegance Hotel(Deluxe Room) 3 Hoang Dieu street, Sapa town, Lao Cai , Vietnam

Trekking through rice terrace in Muong Hoa valley, visiting H'mong, Dzay people, transfer to Bac Ha 8:00 AM:Transfer to the west of town. Begin your full-day trek from Y Linh Ho village, descending through beautiful landscapes and interacting with the friendly H’mong community. Relax at a cable bridge, enjoying the harmonious natural surroundings. For the adventurous, consider an uphill trek along a buffalo path with impressive views and fewer tourists. Alternatively, take a leisurely stroll along the Muong Hoa River. Continue to Lao Chai village and follow a small trail through rice fields to a lovely hamlet. Here, you’ll meet a grandmother who is known for her traditional beeswax decoration of Hmong indigo clothing. This visit provides a rich insight into their cultural heritage and daily life. Proceed to Ta Van village, a picturesque area of the Dzay people, situated on a hill with panoramic views of the river, rice terraces, and the Hoang Lien Son Mountain range. During your walk, you'll have the opportunity to visit local homes and experience their hospitality. After lunch at a local restaurant, transfer back to Bac Ha via Thanh Kim and Thanh Phu. Admire the stunning mountain scenery, rivers, and hydropower lakes along the way. Bac Ha, located at 1,000 meters above sea level, is home to the vibrant Hmong, Phu La, and Tay ethnic groups. The area is famed for its colorful weekly markets, which are important for both trade and cultural exchange. Included: English speaking guide Meal: B, L, D Private transportation Entrance fees 02 bottles of mineral water (500 ml)/pax/day Huy Trung's Homestay(Double Room) Na Quang 3, Bac Ha town, Bac Ha district, Lao Cai , Vietnam

Exploring a typical mountain Bac Ha Market, back to Hanoi 7:00 AM: Explore Bac Ha’s bustling market, where you can experience the local culture firsthand. (Bac Ha market is open on Sundays; alternatively, visit Coc Ly market on Tuesdays or Can Cau market on Saturdays.) Take in the lively scenes of vendors selling vegetables, poultry, horses, and buffaloes, and marvel at the colorful traditional clothing worn by the various minority groups. After the market visit, stroll through picturesque ethnic villages, characterized by cornfields, cassava hills, and traditional clay houses. Enjoy the vibrant colors of the H'Mong women's attire as you explore the area. Afterward, head back to town for lunch before transferring to Hanoi. You will arrive and check into your hotel around 6:00 PM. Included: English speaking guide Meal: B, L Private transportation 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 the Hanoi Old Quarter for a scenic two-and-a-half-hour drive to Lan Ha Bay along National Highway No5B. The route offers views of charming villages and lush rice fields in the Red River Delta. After a brief stop for refreshments and a restroom break, continue your journey to the harbor, arriving around noon. 12:00 PM: Arrive at Tuan Chau Port, Quang Ninh province, where you’ll be warmly greeted by the Peony Cruises team. 12:30 PM: Transfer from the wharf to our luxurious Peony Cruises vessel. Enjoy an informative briefing on the day’s itinerary as you set sail from the harbor. 1:00 PM: Receive a warm welcome aboard with fresh drinks and refreshing towels. Savor a delectable lunch featuring fresh local ingredients and a variety of Vietnamese delicacies as we cruise through Lan Ha Bay, renowned as one of the World’s Most Beautiful Bays. 3:30 PM: Arrive at the Tra Bau area, known for its pristine natural beauty and stunning seascape. Engage in kayaking to explore the picturesque limestone islands or relax in the Jacuzzi pool on board. 5:30 PM - 6:30 PM: Participate in a cooking demonstration to learn how to prepare traditional Vietnamese spring rolls. Alternatively, head to the top deck to enjoy the breathtaking sunset over the Gulf of Tonkin. Take advantage of the Happy Hour special - BUY ONE GET ONE FREE at the bar and capture stunning sunset photos. 7:30 PM: Relish a gourmet dinner featuring local dishes prepared by our expert chef, served in a romantic and intimate setting. 9:00 PM - 10:00 PM: Unwind with exotic cocktails at the sky bar (additional charges apply) or indulge in a spa service (optional). Enjoy a peaceful evening under the stars on the top deck or try your hand at 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: Squid fishing,Swimming 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: Enjoy a Tai Chi session on the sundeck as the sun rises over the stunning Lan Ha Bay. 6:45 AM - 7:15 AM: Breakfast is served while the cruise heads back to Gia Luan jetty. (The breakfast time may be adjusted based on the cruise schedule.) 7:30 AM - 9:00 AM: Explore Cat Ba World Biosphere, starting with a 30-minute transfer to Trung Trang Cave. The cave is known for its impressive limestone formations and geological features. 9:30 AM: Return to the main boat, check out of your cabin, and place your luggage outside for collection. An early lunch will be provided, and any bar charges should be settled at the restaurant. 10:30 AM - 11:00 AM: Disembark from Peony Cruises and transfer to Tuan Chau port. 11:30 AM - 12:00 PM: Arrive at Tuan Chau port and get ready for your next journey. Your driver will transport you back to Hanoi, enjoying a scenic two-and-a-half-hour drive on the new Highway No5B, passing through the Red River Delta. Arrive at your Hanoi Old Quarter hotel. In the evening, transfer to Hanoi Train Station to board your overnight train to Hue. 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 Set foot on Hue railway station in the morning, meet your tour guide and driver who will take you to your hotel to leave your luggage. Begin your exploration of Hue’s historical and cultural landmarks. Transfer to the Huong River (Perfume River) for a Royal boat journey exploring the eastern villages. This river cruise offers a glimpse into the daily lives along the riverbanks.As you glide along the serene waters, you'll have the chance to witness the authentic lifestyles that flourish along both banks of this picturesque river. Upon reaching Tien Non village, disembark and embark on a scenic bike ride through Tien Non, Thanh Tien, and Sinh villages. This leisurely ride will immerse you in the daily routines of these communities, offering a genuine glimpse into their traditional ways of life. In Tien Non village, observe locals tending to their farms and crops. Visit a family worship house to gain insights into local spiritual practices. Next, head to Thanh Tien Village, renowned for its 400-year-old tradition of crafting exquisite paper flowers. Here, you'll meet Mr. Hieu, a master artisan, who will demonstrate the intricate art of paper flower making—an essential craft for celebrating the Lunar New Year and honoring ancestors. Continue your journey to Sinh Village, celebrated for its 400-year-old tradition of folklore printing. Under the guidance of Mr. Phuoc, delve into the techniques of traditional printmaking and discover the rich cultural heritage behind these beautiful prints. Collect some unique souvenirs to remember your visit. Return to the city by boat in the late afternoon and visit the iconic Thien Mu Pagoda. Established in 1601, this ancient pagoda stands as one of Hue's oldest and most revered landmarks. Marvel at its majestic octagonal tower and enjoy panoramic views of the Perfume River. Conclude your day with a visit to the historic Hue Citadel, the last vestige of Vietnam's imperial grandeur. Inspired by 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 its most notable features, including the flag tower, the South Gate, the Palace of Supreme Harmony, the Dynasty temple area, and the surrounding settlement zones. In the evening, return to your accommodation, reflecting on a day filled with cultural discovery and historical marvels. 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: Move from your hotel and head to the majestic Khai Dinh King's Tomb, perched on Chau Tru Hill. This tomb, constructed over 11 years (1920 – 1931), stands out with its unique blend of Eastern and Western architectural styles. Ascend the hundred steps to the worship palace at the summit, where you'll be captivated by intricate porcelain mosaics, a grand ceiling painting, and a small museum showcasing royal artifacts. Enjoy panoramic views of the tomb and its surroundings as you descend. Next, embark on a scenic drive to Hoi An via the Mandarin Road and the Sea Cloud Pass (Hai Van Pass). Pause at the summit to take in breathtaking vistas of the ocean and Da Nang city below. Upon reaching Da Nang, visit the Cham Museum, home to the world's most significant Cham cultural artifacts. Afterward, take a leisurely stroll on My Khe Beach, where you can marvel at the impressive statues of the Goodness of Mercy at Linh Ung Pagoda. Snap some photos of the local fishermen before continuing along the coast to Hoi An. Upon arrival in Hoi An, delve into the charm of this ancient town, which thrived as a prominent Southeast Asian trading port from the 15th to the 19th century. The well-preserved Old Town reflects a rich tapestry of cultural exchanges through its historic buildings, religious sites, and the daily lives of its inhabitants. Begin your exploration at Cam Pho, one of Hoi An’s oldest communal houses. Its design, reminiscent of a Chinese character meaning "country," serves as a tribute to the cultural and commercial interactions between the local community and Chinese and Japanese traders. Next, stroll to Chua Cau, also known as the Japanese Covered Bridge. This iconic structure, built in the 17th century, connects the Japanese quarter with the Chinese neighborhoods and has been meticulously preserved for over 400 years. Continue your walk to the Quan Thang Ancient House, a prime example of Hoi An’s traditional architecture. The house, adorned with intricate carvings by skilled artisans from Kim Bong Carpentry Village, provides an intimate glimpse into the daily life of a Hoi An family. Conclude your tour at the Phuc Kien Assembly Hall, established in the 17th century. This gathering place for Fujianese residents and traders also serves as a religious site dedicated to Thien Hau, the sea goddess. Admire the vibrant courtyard fountains, ornate gates, and beautifully carved dragons in the main hall. Return to your hotel or enjoy some free time to explore the city at your own pace. 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

A great day to Kim Bong, Tra Nhieu, Cam Thanh village, boat trip & biking in countryside, interact with local people. Begin by meeting at the hotel and cycling to the Hoi An pier. Board a ferry to cross the Thu Bon River to Kim Bong village, where you can enjoy the refreshing air and beautiful landscapes as you travel. Discover the artistry of a renowned wood carving village, where skilled craftsmen have evolved traditional Northern Vietnamese techniques by incorporating Chinese and Japanese influences. Take a leisurely bike ride through the village to observe the daily lives of the locals, and visit a carpenter’s workshop to admire their craftsmanship. You can even purchase some beautifully crafted wooden items as mementos of your visit. Pedal through verdant rice paddies and cross charming bamboo bridges to reach Tra Nhieu village. Along the way, take in the scenic rural landscapes of Vietnam's central region. Connect with local artisans like Mr. Kha, who creates intricate bamboo baskets, Ms. Duoc, a weaver of traditional mats, and Mr. Huynh Ri, who builds boats. The journey offers a glimpse into the traditional agricultural life, complete with rice fields, palm trees, buffaloes, and hardworking farmers. From Tra Nhieu, embark on a serene boat ride along the Thu Bon River to Cam Thanh hamlet. Enjoy the tranquil scenery of water palm trees and fishing farms as you travel. Once in Cam Thanh, climb into a small, round bamboo sampan boat for a fun and relaxing crab-catching adventure in the peaceful, palm-fringed waterways. Following this, visit Mr. Phong, a local fisherman, for a restful break at his home. Savor some green tea and enjoy a soothing foot massage with herbal remedies from his garden. Later, engage in a cooking session featuring fresh vegetables and herbs from Tra Que village. Learn to prepare traditional local dishes such as crispy pancakes with beef, shrimp, and bean sprouts; Hoi An and Tam Huu spring rolls; and grilled fish wrapped in banana leaves. Enjoy the delicious results of your culinary efforts. In the afternoon, return to your hotel, reflecting on a day filled with cultural exploration and authentic Vietnamese 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 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: A tour guide and driver will pick you up from your hotel for a half-day excursion to the sacred valley of the Champa Kingdom. Located 40 km from Hoi An, My Son was once the most significant intellectual and religious hub of the Champa Kingdom and might have also been a burial site for Cham monarchs. Designated as a UNESCO World Heritage site, My Son features 70 ancient brick and stone structures built between the 7th and 13th centuries. As you explore the site, your guide will provide insights into its cultural, historical, and architectural significance. The tour also includes a traditional Champa dance performance before you leave the sanctuary. Following the excursion, you'll be transferred to Danang Airport for your flight to Ho Chi Minh City. Upon arrival at Tan Son Nhat Airport, a professional guide and driver will meet you at the arrival hall. During the 30-minute drive to the city center, your guide will give you an overview of the city's highlights and share tips on local dining, drinking, traffic, and culture. Once in the city center, you'll be taken to your hotel. 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: Your day starts with a pickup from your hotel to the Independence Palace, formerly the residence and office of South Vietnam’s Presidents. The visit includes viewing the North Vietnamese tank that stormed the palace in 1975, bringing the Vietnam War to a close. The palace’s five-story structure and its 1960s and 1970s-era rooms, including a bunker basement, have been preserved. Next, take a relaxed walking tour to the Saigon Notre Dame Cathedral, built between 1863 and 1880, showcasing classic French colonial architecture. It’s a picturesque landmark in the city. Stroll towards Nguyen Hue Walking Street and visit the Saigon Central Post Office. Designed by Gustave Eiffel, this stunning building is still a functional post office, admired for its beautiful interior design. You’ll then be driven to Binh Tay Market in Saigon’s Chinatown. As the city’s largest market, it features a vast array of stalls offering clothing, souvenirs, and local foods. The food court is a great place to taste traditional street food. Next, visit Quan Am Pagoda, one of the oldest pagodas in the city, dedicated to Guan Yin and reflecting Taoist and folk religious traditions. Finally, head to the Traditional Medicine Museum (FITO) to explore preserved medicinal herbs, ancient tools, and traditional potions. Your day concludes with a drop-off at 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

Special excursion to Cu Chi tunnels and then visiting Cao Dai temple. 8:00 AM: Depart from your hotel for a visit to the Cu Chi Tunnels, one of the most significant historical sites from the Vietnam War. The Cu Chi Tunnels are an extensive underground network that stretches over 250 kilometers, used by the Viet Cong during their resistance against American forces. These tunnels were dug by hand over two decades with just pickaxes and shovels. During the tour, you will have the opportunity to explore some of the tunnel sections and learn about their historical significance. A visit to the nearby Ben Duoc Memorial Temple, a less touristy site built in 1993 to honor the Vietnamese who perished at Cu Chi, is also included. Next, head to the Cao Dai Temple, an important and sacred site in Vietnam. Caodaism is a unique Vietnamese religion that combines elements of Confucianism, Buddhism, Taoism, and even Roman Catholicism. If your visit coincides with the midday mass, you’ll have the chance to observe this colorful and eclectic religious ceremony. Enjoy lunch at a local restaurant before returning 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

Explore Mekong Delta River, staying in Cai Lay 8:00 AM:Transfer to Ben Tre, a scenic region in the Mekong Delta known for its coconut candy production. Upon arriving at Hung Vuong Pier, take a boat ride along the Ben Tre River to explore the local way of life. Continue by boat through a canal to Nhon Thanh Village, where you can taste fresh fruits. Then, either bike or take a tuk tuk along small village paths, enjoying views of coconut trees, rice paddies, and vegetable gardens. Enjoy a village lunch featuring elephant ear fish. Afterward, take a short walk to further experience the local lifestyle. Continue with a boat ride along a canal shaded by wild palm trees. You’ll then transfer to Cai Lay, where you will be warmly welcomed by your homestay host. Participate in cooking Banh Xeo Nam Bo, a traditional dish of the region, with your host. Dinner and overnight accommodation will be provided 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 Have breakfast at the homestay and then enjoy a bike ride of approximately 1 to 1.5 hours from Dong Hoa to Tam Binh, where you will cycle through durian, sapota, and longan gardens. Meet local residents and visit a local village market. After returning to the homestay for refreshments, you may choose to extend your outing with a one-hour walk along a local trail with a guide, followed by a bike ride to Ngu Hiep Island, a fertile area shaped by Mekong River sediment. If you prefer not to bike, a motorbike ride with a tour guide can be arranged. Proceed to Long Xuyen via Sa Dec, where you can visit the Kien An Cung Pagoda and the Huynh Thuy Le house from Marguerite Duras' novel L’Amant – the Lover. Explore Sa Dec’s market, which offers a variety of fresh fruits, vegetables, and fish. Continue your trip to Long Xuyen, where you will visit the Cao Dai Temple and a crocodile farm before staying overnight in a Long Xuyen hotel. 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 Start your morning with a transfer to the floating market and village in Long Xuyen, set on a scenic Mekong River tributary. Immerse yourself in the authentic daily routines of the river's inhabitants. Enjoy a boat ride to Cu Lao Ong Ho, home to a small museum dedicated to the esteemed President Ton Duc Thang. Explore the island by bicycle and appreciate the calm and picturesque scenery. Head back to Saigon in the late afternoon and check into your hotel upon arrival. 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