From Saigon to Hanoi: Explore the treasure of Vietnam | AuthenticTour – 17 Days

Ho Chi Minh City arrival, welcome and transfer to hotel

Landing at the Tan Son Nhat airport, you are welcomed by professional tour guide and driver at the pickup lobby. On the 30-minute driving from the airport to the city center, your tour guide will introduce you about the highlights of the city, and share the experiences of eating and drinking, traffic, culture....

On arrival, transfer to your hotel.

Note: Hotel check in time at 14.00

Included:
English speaking guide
Private transportation
02 bottles of mineral water (500 ml)/pax/day
Elios Hotel(Senior Superior Room)
233 Pham Ngu Lao street, district 1, Ho Chi Minh City, Vietnam

Discovering Saigon city with the best highlights: Independence palace, Binh Tay market, China town, Quan Am pagoda and Fito Museum of traditional medicine

9:00 AM: Begin your day with a pick-up from your hotel to visit the Independence Palace. This historic site, formerly the residence and office of the Presidents of South Vietnam, includes a tour of the five-story building preserved in its 1960s and 1970s state, as well as the bunker basement. You'll also see the North Vietnamese tank that famously breached the palace in 1975, marking the end of the Vietnam War.

Next, enjoy a leisurely walking tour that takes you to the Saigon Notre Dame Cathedral, a stunning example of French colonial architecture completed between 1863 and 1880. This picturesque cathedral is a city landmark.

Proceed to Nguyen Hue Walking Street to visit the Saigon Central Post Office, designed by the renowned architect Gustave Eiffel. This functioning post office is known for its beautiful interior and architectural significance.

A short drive will bring you to Binh Tay Market in Saigon’s Chinatown. As the city’s largest market, it offers a wide range of goods, from clothing and souvenirs to local food. Explore the bustling stalls and sample local delicacies at the food court.

Your next stop is Quan Am Pagoda, one of the city's oldest pagodas, dedicated to Guan Yin and reflecting Taoist and folk worship traditions.

Finally, visit the Traditional Medicine Museum (FITO), which houses a collection of medicinal herb recipes, ancient potions, and historical tools used in traditional Vietnamese medicine.

At the end of the day, you will be dropped back 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

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: Pick-up from your hotel to travel to Ben Tre, a picturesque region in the Mekong Delta famous for its coconut candy.

Arrive at Hung Vuong Pier and embark on a boat tour of the Ben Tre River, where you’ll experience local life up close. Continue by boat along a canal to Nhon Thanh Village, where you’ll sample fresh fruit. Explore the area by bike (or tuk-tuk), enjoying views of coconut plantations, rice fields, and vegetable gardens.

Lunch will feature elephant ear fish served in the village. Afterward, take a short walk to delve deeper into local life, followed by a boat ride along a tranquil canal shaded by wild palm trees.

Transfer from Ben Tre to Cai Lay for a 1-hour journey. Upon arrival, you’ll be warmly welcomed by your homestay host. Participate in making Banh Xeo Nam Bo, a traditional regional dish, with your host.

Enjoy 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

Start with breakfast at the homestay before setting out on a bike ride (1 to 1.5 hours) along the scenic route from Dong Hoa to Tam Binh. You'll pass through lush durian, sapota, and longan gardens, interact with local residents, and visit a local village market. Return to the homestay for refreshments.

Enjoy a one-hour walk with a local guide, followed by a bike ride to Ngu Hiep Island, renowned for its fertile gardens created by the Mekong River’s alluvium. For those preferring not to bike, a motorbike with a driver can be arranged.

Travel to Long Xuyen via Sa Dec, where you can explore Kien An Cung pagoda and Huynh Thuy Le’s house, which inspired Marguerite Duras’s novel L’Amant – The Lover. Discover the vibrant local market in Sa Dec, filled with a variety of fruits, vegetables, and fish. Proceed to Long Xuyen to visit a Cao Dai temple and a crocodile farm. Overnight stay 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

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

Special excursion to Cu Chi tunnels and then visiting Cao Dai temple, flying to Danang, Hoi An

8:00 AM: Depart from your hotel to explore the Cu Chi Tunnels, a significant historical site from the Vietnam War. The Cu Chi Tunnels form an extensive underground network, stretching over 250 kilometers, where the Viet Cong waged their resistance against American forces. These tunnels were painstakingly dug over twenty years using only pickaxes and shovels. The tour allows for entry into some sections of the tunnels and includes a visit to the Ben Duoc Memorial Temple, a less touristy site dedicated to Vietnamese soldiers who died in Cu Chi and built in 1993.

Next, head to the Cao Dai Temple, one of Vietnam's most revered attractions. Caodaism is a unique Vietnamese religion that blends elements of Confucianism, Buddhism, Taoism, and Roman Catholicism. You’ll have the opportunity to witness the midday mass at this sacred site.

Enjoy lunch at a local restaurant before transferring back to the city center for your flight to Da Nang.

Upon arrival at Da Nang Airport, you’ll be greeted by a professional tour guide and driver at the pickup area.

During the 30-45 minute drive to your hotel, the tour guide will provide insights into the city's highlights, local dining and drinking spots, traffic tips, and cultural insights.

Drive along the scenic coastline to your hotel, check in, and unwind.

Included:
English speaking guide
Meal: B, L
Private transportation
Entrance fees
02 bottles of mineral water (500 ml)/pax/day
Flight :VN138 (SGN - DAD) - (Direct) / 16:00 - 17:35 - Vietnam Airlines - Economy / 06 tickets
Delicacy Hotel & Spa(Deluxe City View Room)
116 Hung Vuong, Hoi An, Quang Nam , Vietnam

Discovering Hoi An rural by cycling and city walking tour

8:00 AM: Your day starts with a pickup from your hotel and a journey to Hoi An town center. First, visit Cam Pho, a historical communal house built in the shape of a Chinese character for "country." This ancient structure served both as a place of worship and a center for trade and cultural interaction between locals and traders from China and Japan.

Enjoy a leisurely walk to Chua Cau, the Japanese Covered Bridge, a landmark of Hoi An. Constructed in the 17th century to connect the Japanese quarter with the Chinese neighborhoods, the bridge has retained its original architectural style for the past 400 years.

Next, head to the Quan Thang ancient house, one of Hoi An’s most authentic old residences. This house features exquisite architecture and carvings created by artisans from the Kim Bong carpentry village, reflecting traditional oriental craftsmanship and offering insight into local family life.

Then, visit the Phuc Kien Assembly Hall, or Fujian Assembly Hall, before taking a ferry across the Thu Bon River to Kim Bong village. Enjoy the tranquil river breeze and scenic views on the boat ride.

Kim Bong village is known for its wood carving skills. Initially using techniques from northern Vietnam, local artisans later adopted Chinese and Japanese methods to create a distinctive style. Bike around the village to observe everyday life and visit a carpenter’s workshop to admire their woodwork. You can also buy some carved wooden products as mementos.

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: Depart from your hotel and travel to Hue, taking the scenic coastal route through Da Nang. In Da Nang, stop at the Cham Museum, renowned for its extensive collection of Cham artifacts. Next, walk to My Khe Beach to admire the impressive statues of the Goddess of Mercy at Linh Ung Pagoda. Capture some photos of the local fishermen before continuing your drive along the coast towards the ancient capital of Hue. Make a stop at the summit of Hai Van Pass to take in the stunning ocean views.

Upon arriving in Hue, enjoy a lunch and then visit Thien Mu Pagoda, one of the city’s oldest pagodas, established in 1601. The pagoda is known for its striking octagonal tower and picturesque views of the Perfume River.

Continue your tour to Hue Citadel, the historic heart of the former imperial city of Vietnam. Modeled after Vauban’s fortifications, the Citadel is divided into three sections: Kinh Thanh (the Capital City), Hoang Thanh (the Imperial City), and Cam Thanh (the Forbidden City). Key highlights include the Flag Tower, the South Gate, the Palace of Supreme Harmony, the Dynasty Temples, and the residential areas.

Conclude your day by checking into your hotel and enjoying your stay in the historic capital.

Included:
English speaking guide
Meal: B, L
Private transportation
Entrance fees
02 bottles of mineral water (500 ml)/pax/day
Rosaleen Boutique Hotel(Deluxe Double Room)
36 Chu Van An street, Hue city, Thua Thien Hue, Vietnam

An amazing day tour to explore Perfume River by boat trip, excursion to Tien Non, Thanh Tien, Sinh village, Khai Dinh King's Tomb. Taking a flight to Hanoi

8:00 AM: move to the Huong River (Perfume River) for a Royal boat excursion to explore villages east of the city. This trip offers a glimpse into local life along both sides of this picturesque river. Upon arrival in Tien Non village, disembark and cycle through the countryside, visiting Tien Non, Thanh Tien, and Sinh villages to experience the local way of life.

In Tien Non, meet villagers working in their fields and gardens, and visit a local family’s worship house. Then, head to Thanh Tien village, renowned for its 400-year tradition of making paper flowers. Visit Mr. Hieu’s family to learn the art of paper flower crafting. Continue to Sinh village, known for its 400-year history of folklore prints. Meet Mr. Phuoc, who will explain the traditional printing techniques and browse for beautiful souvenirs. Later, return to the city by boat.

In the afternoon, drive to Khai Dinh King’s Tomb, located on Chau Tru Hill and constructed over 11 years (1920-1931). This tomb is distinguished by its unique combination of Eastern and Western architectural styles. Climb the hundred steps to the worship palace, where you’ll see elaborate decorations, including porcelain mosaics, a large ceiling painting, and a small royal artifact museum. The descent offers panoramic views of the tomb and its surroundings.

Conclude your day with a transfer to the airport for your flight to Hanoi.

Upon arrival at Noi Bai Airport, a professional tour guide and driver will meet you. Enjoy a 45-minute drive to Hanoi’s Old Quarter, where your guide will brief you on the city’s key sights, culture, traffic, and cuisine. Check into your hotel and relax.

Note: Hotel check in time at 14.00

Included:
English speaking guide
Meal: B
Boat: Sinh - Tien Non
Private transportation
Entrance fees
Bike: Hue
02 bottles of mineral water (500 ml)/pax/day
Flight :VN1544 (HUI - HAN) - (Direct) / 18:30 - 20:10 - Vietnam Airlines - Economy / 06 tickets
Conifer Grand Hotel(ROH Room)
42 Tho Xuong, Hoan Kiem district, Ha Noi City, Vietnam

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

9:00 AM: Your tour begins with a pickup by your guide to visit the Temple of Literature, established during the Ly dynasty in the 11th century to honor Confucius and educate royal children. Stroll through the garden to the iconic Khue Van Cac and explore the World Heritage "stone steles," which commemorate distinguished students. Next, visit Quoc Tu Giam, recognized as Vietnam’s first national university.

Following this, head to the Ethnology Museum (closed on Mondays), which provides an in-depth look at Vietnamese culture through displays of traditional costumes, tools, musical instruments, and ethnic houses. Allocate around two hours to fully experience this fascinating museum.

In the afternoon, explore the French Quarter, often referred to as "little Paris" due to its tree-lined streets, grand government buildings, and large squares. View Ho Chi Minh’s mausoleum from the outside before enjoying a leisurely walk in the botanical gardens. Visit the Presidential Palace and Ho Chi Minh’s stilt house, where he lived and worked.
Conclude with a visit to the unique One-Pillar Pagoda, one of Hanoi’s symbols. The time spent exploring this area may range from 1 to 2 hours, depending on the group size.

Next, visit the small Ba Da Pagoda, quietly nestled in an alley just steps from the Hanoi Great Cathedral, built by French colonialists in the 19th century. Your guide will also take you through typical Hanoi streets such as Lan Ong Street, known for traditional medicine, and Lo Ren Street, famous for metal items. Stop at Dong Xuan Central Market, the largest market in Hanoi. Continue to Ta Hien Street, a vibrant area known for its lively nightlife and street food, where you can sample local delicacies for an unforgettable experience.

End the day with a traditional water puppet show, a unique performance art that originated in the 11th century. The show depicts Vietnamese daily life, culture, and beliefs through puppets on water, often accompanied by traditional music.

Return to your hotel and conclude your day.

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

Visiting Muong village, scenic views at Thung Khe pass, exploring Thai culture in Mai Hich then overnight in homestay

8:00 AM: Meet your guide and driver to begin your journey to Mai Chau. On the way, visit a Muong village and then proceed to Thung Khe Pass, where you can enjoy magnificent panoramic views of the valley. Mai Chau, situated 145 km from Hanoi, is a charming valley known for its stunning natural beauty, including lush green mountains, terraced rice fields, and White Thai ethnic villages.

Upon reaching Mai Hich, check into your accommodation and savor a meal cooked by your host. Later, explore Mai Hich either by bike (optional) or by walking along the trails and concrete paths. The picturesque landscape, with its combination of villages, rice paddies, mountains, and streams, is truly enchanting. Don’t miss the opportunity to engage with the friendly locals, who are always ready to invite you for a cup of tea. Return to your accommodation in the late afternoon.

Note: Private traditional music and dancing show by local people is available with extra cost of $35/group. Please ask our guide to reserve if you are interested in.

Included:
English speaking guide
Meal: B, L, D
Private transportation
Bike: Mai Chau
02 bottles of mineral water (500 ml)/pax/day
Mai Hich Homestay (Sharing homestay)
Mai Hich commune, Mai Chau district, Hoa Binh , Vietnam

Enjoying an excursion to Muong homeland from Eo Ken to Ban Hang village, Pu Luong Nature Reserve, Chieng Lau discovery

Travel directly from Mai Hich to Eo Ken, located 30km away, where the Muong ethnic community lives. Walk down the slope to enjoy stunning views of Pu Luong Nature Reserve, rice terraces, and mountains. Explore a Muong family’s home in Eo Ken village to see their authentic way of life. Continue your walk through this scenic landscape, crossing a stream to arrive at Hang Village.

You will then be picked up by your driver and transferred to Pu Luong, where you will check into your accommodation. In the afternoon, head to Chieng Lau, a scenic spot renowned for its lush rice paddies and bamboo water wheels. Take a scenic walk, engage with local people, and observe the traditional bamboo water wheels used for irrigation.

Included:
English speaking guide
Meal: B, L, D
Boat: Chieng Lau bamboo rafting
Private transportation
02 bottles of mineral water (500 ml)/pax/day
Pu Luong Home(Double Room (Shared bathroom))
Ba Thuoc district, Thanh Hoa , Vietnam

Trekking in the rice terraces, exploring the Thai culture in Chom Uoi, Lan Ngoai villages

8:00 AM: Start your day by hiking down into the scenic valley from your lodgings, passing through breathtaking rice fields and following winding paths to Chom Uoi and Chom Lan villages. Be sure to use your camera to capture the stunning views of rice terraces, villages, fields, ponds, streams, and mountains. Proceed with your hike to Pho Doan, where you'll enjoy lunch at a local eatery.

After lunch, travel to Ninh Binh. En route, make a stop to explore the sacred fish stream in Cam Luong. This site is known for its unusual fish species, regarded as sacred and surrounded by many fascinating stories. Continue your trip to Ninh Binh, where you'll check into your accommodation.

Included:
English speaking guide
Meal: B, L, D
Private transportation
Entrance fees
02 bottles of mineral water (500 ml)/pax/day
Nep House(Double Room)
Lang Noi, Lang Van, Gia Lap, Gia Vien, Ninh Binh , Vietnam

Biking to Thung La temple and then a boat trip in Van Long Nature Reserve, embroidering experience

8:00 AM: Choose to embark on a 10 km bike ride (one way) or a 20 km round trip along the dyke, offering panoramic views of rice fields, a river, and limestone mountains. Make optional stops for photos and interactions with local people. Visit Thung La Temple, an ancient site from the 11th century, and experience traditional Vietnamese musical instruments that are significant to local spiritual practices.

Afterward, take a sampan boat ride along the stream and through the limestone landscapes of Van Long Nature Reserve. You might be fortunate enough to see white monkeys and egrets on the cliffs. Following the boat ride, visit an embroidery village and participate in an embroidery workshop with local craftswoman Mrs. Lam, who will teach you traditional techniques.

Return your bike to the homestay, say goodbye to your host, and head to Hanoi, enjoying the scenic drive through the Red River Delta. Capture the lush rice fields and tranquil countryside in your photos along the way.

Included:
English speaking guide
Meal: B
Boat: Van Long
Private transportation
Entrance fees
Bike: Ninh Binh
Leisure: Thung La temple music
02 bottles of mineral water (500 ml)/pax/day
Conifer Grand Hotel(ROH Room)
42 Tho Xuong, Hoan Kiem district, Ha Noi City, Vietnam

Cruising in Bai Tu Long bay, exploring Cap La Island, cooking class and overnight on boat

8:00 AM: Pick up from your Hanoi Old Quarter hotel and embark on a scenic three-hour drive to Bai Tu Long Bay. Along the way, enjoy views of villages and rice paddies in the Red River Delta. There will be a stop for refreshments and restroom use before continuing to the harbor, where you'll arrive around noon and receive a warm welcome at the cruise reception.

11:30 - 11:45 AM: Arrive at the lounge at Ha Long International Cruise Port. Relax while the captain completes the registration process, then transfer by tender to the cruise boat.

12:00 - 12:15 PM: Upon boarding, enjoy a welcome drink and receive a safety briefing about the boat’s activities before checking into your cabin.

13:00: Enjoy a traditional Vietnamese set menu lunch while cruising further into Bai Tu Long Bay.

15:00: Arrive at Cap La Island for kayaking. Explore the beautiful karst formations, enjoy swimming, and take time to relax.

17:40: Return to the boat for a Sunset Party as we head to the overnight anchorage. Participate in a Vietnamese cooking class or try fruit and vegetable carving.

19:00: Delight in a set dinner onboard.

20:30 - 22:00: Spend your evening with options including Vietnamese puzzle games, board games, squid fishing, or relaxing with a cocktail while enjoying the peaceful night on the bay.

Included:
Shuttle bus: Hanoi - Halong
English speaking guide (on board)
Meal: B, L, D
Entrance fees
Kayak: Halong
Leisure: Swimming
Cooking class: Halong (on board) - cooking demonstration
02 bottles of mineral water (500 ml)/pax/day
Swan Cruise - 2D1N(Deluxe Cabin)
3 Dang Thai Than street, Hoan Kien district, Ha Noi City, Vietnam

Visiting the charm of Thien Canh Son cave, stunning cruising and back to Hanoi

06:30 AM: Participate in a Tai Chi session on the sundeck at sunrise, or take in the magnificent morning views of the bay with a cup of tea or coffee.

07:00: Enjoy a Western-style breakfast to start your day of exploration.

07:45 AM: Visit the well-hidden Thien Canh Son Cave.

09:00 AM: Return to the boat to freshen up and complete your packing in approximately 30 minutes.

09:30 AM: Check out of your cabin.

10:00 AM: Have a traditional Vietnamese lunch on the boat.

10:30 AM: Depart for the harbor.

11:15 - 11:30 AM: Disembark at Ha Long Cruise Port.

You will be welcomed by a driver and travel back to Hanoi, with a rest stop along the way before being dropped off at your hotel in the Hanoi Old Quarter.

Included:
English speaking guide (on board)
Meal: B, L
Entrance fees
Leisure: Morning Tai Chi
02 bottles of mineral water (500 ml)/pax/day
Conifer Grand Hotel(ROH Room)
42 Tho Xuong, Hoan Kiem district, Ha Noi City, Vietnam

Transferring to airport for flights to next destinations

Private driver will pick you up at the hotel lobby (Hanoi Old Quarter) for about 45 minutes to Noi Bai airport (international or domestic hall according to your request). Thanks for the visit to our city.

Note: International flights require you to be at the airport 3 hours and domestic is 2 hours before departure time.

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