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From Saigon to Hanoi: Vietnam at a Glance | Classic Tour – 11 Days

11 Days
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This is an ideal trip to the best destinations in Vietnam in a short time. Leave your footprints on the most popular destinations, admire beautiful scenery, meet with local residents, enjoy unique culture and cuisine and learn about the fascinating history ….Tour starts from Ho Chi Minh City and ends in Hanoi.

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Overview

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Overview

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

Visit: Ho Chi Minh City (Saigon) – Cai Be – Tay Ninh – Hoi An – Hue – Hanoi – Halong Bay

Duration: 11 Days

Travel style: Most popular

Category: Private tour

Tour schedule: Daily Departure

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

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Highlights

  • Bustling Hanoi Capital, dynamic Ho Chi Minh City
  • Excursion to Cu Chi Tunnels, Mekong Delta
  • Hue ancient city of Nguyen Dynasty
  • Hoi An Heritage Old town
  • World Nature Heritage
  • Overnight on Bay
  • Historical, cultural, local life and stunning landscapes experience

Itinerary

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

Saigon City full day tour to visit Independence palace, Walking tour, War Remnant museum, Ben Thanh market

9:00 AM: Begin your adventure with a pickup from your hotel and head to the iconic Independence Palace. This historic site, once the residence and command center for South Vietnamese leaders, is famously marked by the North Vietnamese tank that breached its gates in 1975, signaling the end of the Vietnam War. Explore its five stories, where rooms are preserved in their 1960s and 1970s grandeur, and discover the secret bunker below.

Stroll over to the Notre Dame Cathedral of Saigon, an elegant relic of French colonial architecture constructed between 1863 and 1880. Its neo-Romanesque facade and tranquil ambiance offer a delightful contrast to the bustling city.

Make your way to Nguyen Hue Walking Street to admire the stunning Saigon Central Post Office, a masterpiece designed by Gustave Eiffel. With its beautiful interior and ongoing postal services, it’s a charming snapshot of French influence amidst modern-day activity.

Enjoy lunch or refreshments at your leisure before heading to the War Remnants Museum in the afternoon. This impactful museum provides a profound and sometimes harrowing perspective on the Vietnam War through its extensive and revealing exhibitions.

Conclude your day with a visit to Ben Thanh Market, a vibrant hub since 1870. Here, you can browse a lively array of goods, from local handicrafts to street food, capturing the essence of Vietnamese culture and commerce.

Return to your hotel, where you can either unwind or venture out to continue exploring the dynamic city at your own pace.

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 delta, visiting Cai Be, boat trip, biking, back to Saigon in the afternoon.

After enjoying a delicious breakfast at your hotel, meet your tour guide and driver for a scenic trip to Cai Be. On your journey, make an intriguing stop at the Cao Dai Temple, renowned for its vibrant colors and eclectic blend of religious symbols.

Upon reaching Cai Be, take a leisurely stroll along the charming canals bordered by lush orchards, and experience the tranquil pace of life along the storied Mekong River.

Delve into local craftsmanship with visits to workshops where artisans create delectable treats like rice popcorn, coconut caramel, and rice cakes.
Discover the serene beauty of Phu Chau Pagoda, either by bike or on foot, and enjoy a leisurely exploration of the village trails while connecting with the friendly locals.

Savor a delightful lunch at a local outdoor eatery, where you can sample the renowned elephant ear fish, a regional specialty. Afterward, relax with a scenic rowboat ride through the shaded canals, and indulge in a variety of fresh, seasonal fruits.

Return to Saigon in the late afternoon, carrying with you the serene and flavorful experiences of the Mekong Delta.

Included:
English speaking guide
Meal: B, L
Boat: Cai Be
Private transportation
Bike: Cai Be
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 accommodation for a fascinating journey to the Cu Chi Tunnels, a historic site that stands as a testament to Vietnam War history.

Explore this underground labyrinth, a remarkable network of tunnels stretching over 250 km, used by the Viet Cong in their resistance against American forces. Discover the ingenuity behind its construction, done solely with pickaxes and shovels over two decades. Experience the tunnels firsthand through specific entry points, and visit the nearby Ben Duoc Memorial Temple, established in 1993 to honor those who lost their lives at Cu Chi. This site is less touristy and offers a deeper, more personal reflection on the events.

Continue your journey to the Cao Dai Temple, one of Vietnam's most sacred places. Cao Dai is a unique Vietnamese religion that blends elements of Taoism, Buddhism, Confucianism, and Roman Catholicism. Witness the midday mass, a colorful and spiritual ceremony reflecting the temple’s eclectic beliefs.
After lunch at a local restaurant near the temple, head to the airport for your flight to Da Nang.
Upon arrival at Da Nang Airport, meet your knowledgeable tour guide and driver. During the approximately 30-45-minute drive to your hotel, your guide will offer insights into the city's top attractions, dining options, traffic tips, and cultural highlights.

Arrive at your accommodation, situated along the picturesque coastline. Settle in and unwind, taking in the beautiful surroundings as you prepare for the next leg of your journey.

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
La Charm Hoi An Hotel & Spa(Superior Room)
64 Dao Duy Tu, Hoi An, Quang Nam , Vietnam

Day 5 :
Hoi An

A full day to visit Hoi An city tour

9:00 AM: Your Hoi An adventure begins with a pickup from your hotel, setting the stage for a journey through one of South-East Asia's most captivating historical gems. Once a bustling trading port from the 15th to the 19th century, Hoi An's Old Town remains a beautifully preserved testament to its rich, multicultural past.

Our first stop is Cam Pho, one of Hoi An’s oldest communal houses. This architectural marvel, shaped like the Chinese character for "country," was historically a hub for worship, trade, and cultural exchange between the local community and Chinese and Japanese traders.

From there, take a leisurely stroll to Chua Cau, the iconic Japanese Covered Bridge. Built in the 17th century, this bridge not only connects the Japanese quarter to the Chinese neighborhoods but also stands as a meticulously preserved relic of Hoi An's historical charm.

Continue your exploration with a walk through the town to the Quan Thang Ancient House. This well-preserved gem showcases traditional Hoi An architecture and intricate craftsmanship from the renowned Kim Bong carpentry village, offering a glimpse into the daily life and artistry of its former inhabitants.

Next, visit the Phuc Kien Assembly Hall, a vibrant gathering place for traders and residents from Fujian, China. Established in the 17th century, this hall is a religious site dedicated to Thien Hau, the goddess of the sea. Marvel at the colorful courtyard fountains, the ornate gates, and the intricately carved dragons that adorn the main room.

In the afternoon, journey to Tra Que Farming Village, renowned for its aromatic herbs such as mint and basil. These herbs, smaller and more flavorful than their common counterparts, are used in traditional Vietnamese medicine. Enjoy a fascinating introduction to the village’s history, vegetable cultivation techniques, and local life, while capturing the essence of rural Vietnam through your camera lens.

After the excursion, return to the city for some free time to either explore Hoi An’s charming streets or relax on its inviting beaches.

Included:
English speaking guide
Meal: B
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

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

8:00 AM: Leave from your hotel and embark on a scenic drive along the coastline, heading towards Hue. As you reach Da Nang, your first stop will be the Cham Museum, which houses one of the most extensive and significant collections of Cham artifacts in the world.

Next, make your way to My Khe Beach, where you’ll marvel at the towering Goodness of Mercy sculptures within the Linh Ung Pagoda. Capture the serene moments with the local fishermen along the shore before continuing your journey down the coast to the ancient capital of Hue.

On your way, pause at the summit of Hai Van Pass to soak in the breathtaking views of the ocean and the rugged landscape.

Upon arriving in Hue, enjoy a delicious lunch before heading to the Thien Mu Pagoda. This historic pagoda, dating back to 1601, is a spiritual landmark renowned for its striking octagonal tower and stunning views over the Perfume River.

Afterward, delve into Hue's rich history with a visit to the Hue Citadel. This formidable fortress, inspired by Vauban's military architecture, was once the heart of Vietnam’s imperial capital. Explore its three main sections: the Forbidden City (Cam Thanh), the Imperial City (Hoang Thanh), and the Capital City (Kinh Thanh). Among the notable sites within are the grand flag tower, the South Gate, the Palace of Supreme Harmony, the Dynasty Temple area, and the residential quarters.

Conclude your day by checking into your hotel, where you can unwind and reflect on the rich history and stunning landscapes you’ve experienced in the historic city of Hue.

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

Enjoying boat trip, visiting Minh Mang's tomb, excursion to Thuy Bieu village, take a flight to Hanoi

After settling into your hotel, embark on a visit to the Emperor Minh Mang's Mausoleum, a splendid testament to imperial grandeur. This architectural gem harmoniously blends with its natural surroundings and showcases exquisite imperial religious art. Although Minh Mang initiated its design during his reign (1820-40), his successor, Thieu Tri, mobilized ten thousand laborers and craftsmen to bring the mausoleum to life.

Continue your exploration with a cruise on the Huong River (also known as the Perfume River) to the charming Thuy Bieu Village. As you glide along the river, soak in the picturesque landscapes on both sides. Upon reaching Thuy Bieu, famous for its fragrant grapefruit trees, you’ll have the opportunity to cycle through the village, shaded by these aromatic trees and surrounded by the fresh scent of straw. The tranquil atmosphere of the village offers a perfect backdrop for capturing beautiful photos and engaging with the local residents tending to their vegetable fields and gardens.

Visit a traditional garden house temple dedicated to the local guardian, a centuries-old site that offers a glimpse into the area's cultural heritage. This is a fantastic opportunity to pause for memorable photos and connect with the local community.

Next, participate in a cooking class featuring some of Hue’s renowned delicacies. Enjoy a delicious lunch prepared with fresh, local ingredients from the village before heading back to the city.

In the afternoon, take a short flight to Hanoi. Upon arriving at Noi Bai Airport, you’ll be warmly greeted by a knowledgeable tour guide and driver. Enjoy a 45-minute drive to Hanoi’s Old Quarter, where you’ll learn about the city’s highlights, customs, traffic, and cuisine. After checking into your hotel, take some time to relax and unwind.

Note: Hotel check in time at 14.00

Included:
English speaking guide
Meal: B, L
Boat: Thuy Bieu - Minh Mang
Private transportation
Entrance fees
Bike: Thuy Bieu
Cooking class: Thuy Bieu
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

Day 8 :
Hanoi

Visiting the city's highlights, traveling to French Quarter, Ho Chi Minh complex, leisurely walk by the West Lake

9:00 AM: Your day begins with a pickup from your hotel, whisking you away to the Temple of Literature—Hanoi’s ancient haven established in the 11th century by the Ly dynasty. This tranquil site, dedicated to Confucius and royal education, invites you to wander its serene courtyards and admire the iconic Khue Van Cac pavilion. Be sure to marvel at the stone steles, which inscribe the names of Vietnam’s most illustrious scholars, and explore Quoc Tu Giam, the nation’s inaugural university.

Next, delve into Hanoi’s cultural treasures by visiting one of its premier museums. Choose from the National History Museum, Hoa Lo Prison, Museum of Ethnology, or Fine Arts Museum. After soaking in the exhibits, take a moment to enjoy a leisurely lunch or a refreshing drink at your own pace.

In the afternoon, immerse yourself in the elegance of Hanoi’s French Quarter, often called “Little Paris.” This district is renowned for its grand squares, historic architecture, and tree-lined boulevards. Admire Ho Chi Minh’s Mausoleum from the outside, then take a leisurely stroll through the Botanical Gardens to visit the Presidential Palace, where Ho Chi Minh once lived and worked. Continue your exploration to the One-Pillar Pagoda, a unique and iconic landmark. Depending on your group size, this exploration may take between one to two hours.

Proceed to the Quan Thanh Temple, one of Hanoi’s four principal temples, built in the 11th century during the reign of King Ly Thai To. Dedicated to Tran Vu, the chief Taoist deity, the temple offers a peaceful retreat with stunning views over West Lake. From here, make your way to the Pagoda of Tran Quoc, an ancient site dating back to the 6th century under the Ly Nam De Dynasty.

Cap off your day with a vibrant stroll through the 36 Streets of the Old Quarter, a bustling commercial hub since the 15th century. This lively area, often described as a living museum, is a tapestry of narrow alleys, traditional tube houses, bustling markets, and tantalizing street food. Exploring on foot will immerse you in Hanoi’s dynamic street life.

End your adventure with a captivating performance of water puppetry, an art form originating from the 11th century. This enchanting show brings Vietnamese folklore and daily life to life on water, accompanied by traditional live music.

Return to your hotel for a restful evening, reflecting on the rich experiences and vibrant culture you’ve encountered throughout the 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

Amazing sailing route, Pearl farm excursion, swimming and hiking at Titov Island, offering a great panoramic views

8:00 – 8:30 AM: Your driver will pick you up from your Hanoi Old Quarter hotel or from our Shuttle Bus stop (additional charges for pre-booked transfers apply). We will then travel to Halong City, a drive of approximately 2.5 to 3 hours with an optional restroom stop.

11:00 AM: Arrive at Tuan Chau Marina and check in at the waiting area.

12:00 PM: Board the cruise ship, enjoy a welcome drink, and receive a brief introduction. After checking into your cabin, prepare for lunch.

12:30 PM: Enjoy a meal featuring both Vietnamese and international dishes while cruising through Halong Bay, passing notable landmarks like the Incense Burner, Dog Stone Islet, Fighting Cock Islet, and Three Coconuts Island.

2:30 PM: Visit the Pearl Farm, where you can kayak and get a closer look at the bay’s natural beauty.

4:00 PM: Explore Sung Sot Cave (Grotte des Surprising), the largest cave in the area, and be amazed by its remarkable stalactites and stalagmites. (Sturdy footwear is advised for wet conditions.)

5:45 PM: Return to the boat and enjoy Happy Hour at the bar (buy 2, get 1 free).

(Optional: Massage services are available. Please book through the Cruise Manager.)

7:30 PM: Enjoy a gourmet dinner with a selection of traditional and fusion dishes prepared by our chefs.

9:00 PM: After dinner, relax at the bar and spa, try squid fishing, watch a movie in your cabin, play cards or chess, or unwind on the sundeck.

11:00 PM: Overnight stay on the cruise.

Included:
Shuttle bus: Hanoi - Tuan Chau
English speaking guide (on board)
Meal: B, L, D
Entrance fees
Leisure: Swimming,Squid fishing
Cooking class: Halong (on board) - cooking demonstration
02 bottles of mineral water (500 ml)/pax/day
Mila Cruise - 2D1N(Deluxe Cabin)
7 Nghi Tam, Tay Ho, Ha Noi City, Vietnam

Exploring Sung Sot Cave then leisurely sailing before transferring back to Hanoi

06:15 AM: Kick off your day with a Tai Chi session on the sundeck to invigorate your senses, followed by a hearty breakfast at the restaurant.

06:30 AM: Enjoy a selection of coffee, tea, and pastries for breakfast.

07:30 AM: Visit Titov Island, famed for its pristine sandy beaches and spectacular views of the bay from the island’s summit. (Appropriate footwear is recommended, particularly in wet conditions.)

09:30 AM: Head back to the cruise ship to complete your check-out process and settle any outstanding bills at the reception.

10:00 AM: Savor a brunch while cruising back to Tuan Chau Marina. You can relax on the sundeck or enjoy the meal in the dining area.

11:30 AM: Disembark at Tuan Chau Marina and say your farewells to the crew.

A driver will be waiting for you at the Cruise Waiting Lounge to take you back to Hanoi (additional fees apply). The drive will take approximately 2.5 to 3 hours, with a possible restroom stop en route. You will be dropped off at your hotel in Hanoi's Old Quarter or at our Shuttle Bus stop.

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

Cost Includes

  • English speaking tour guide following itinerary
  • All entrance fees and tickets mention on itinerary
  • Selected Accommodations with daily breakfast
  • Cruise: Mila Cruise - 2D1N
  • Boat: Cai Be, Thuy Bieu - Minh Mang
  • Private car following itinerary
  • Shuttle bus: Hanoi - Tuan Chau
  • Flight Tickets: VN138 SGN - DAD (Vietnam Airlines - Economy) , VN1544 HUI - HAN (Vietnam Airlines - Economy)
  • Meal: Breakfast: 10, Lunch: 06, Dinner: 01
  • Bike: Cai Be, Thuy Bieu
  • Leisure: Water puppet, Swimming, Squid fishing, Morning Tai Chi
  • Cooking class: Thuy Bieu, Halong (on board) - cooking demonstration
  • Service charges and Taxes

Cost Excludes

  • Cost Excludes
What is the itinerary for the 11-day tour?

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The itinerary includes stops in Ho Chi Minh City, Cai Be, Tay Ninh, Hoi An, Hue, Hanoi, and Halong Bay. Each destination features unique activities and cultural experiences.

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What is included in the tour package?

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The tour typically includes accommodations, daily breakfasts, transportation between destinations, guided tours, and entrance fees to attractions.

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How do I book the tour?

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You can book the tour through our website or by contacting our customer service team. Reservations can be made online for your convenience.

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What should I pack for the tour?

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We recommend packing lightweight clothing, comfortable walking shoes, a hat, sunscreen, and any personal items you may need. A light jacket may be useful for cooler evenings.

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What is the best time of year to take this tour?

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The best time to visit Vietnam is generally from October to April when the weather is cooler and drier. However, the tour operates year-round.

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From Saigon to Hanoi: Vietnam at a Glance | Classic Tour – 11 Days
From $955
/ Adult
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  • Professional Local Guide