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Mighty Mekong and Gorgeous Halong Bay | Vietnam Classic Tour – 09 Days

9 Days
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The most popular journey to discover the highlights of South & North Vietnam. Encounter with the hospitable indigenous people, admire the breathtaking beauty of Ha Long and discover the unique cultural and historical values ​​of each region you go through. Depart from Saigon and finish 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 – Hanoi – Ninh Binh – Halong Bay

Duration: 09 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, floating market
  • Tranquil Ninh Binh countryside
  • Halong World Nature Heritage
  • Overnight on Halong 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: Start your day with a visit to the Reunification Palace, once the official residence and command center of South Vietnamese leaders. Tour its five floors, where you’ll find rooms preserved in the style of the late 1960s and 1970s, and explore the bunker basement. View the iconic North Vietnamese tank that famously entered the palace in 1975, marking a significant historical moment.

From there, take a pleasant walk to the Saigon Notre-Dame Basilica, an architectural marvel built between 1863 and 1880. This cathedral, a symbol of French colonial influence, offers a peaceful ambiance and stunning photo opportunities.

Continue your stroll to Nguyen Hue Walking Street, a bustling pedestrian area that leads you to another highlight: the Saigon Central Post Office. Designed by Gustave Eiffel, this striking building is not just a post office but also a beautiful example of French colonial architecture with intricate interiors.

Take a break for lunch or a refreshing drink at your own convenience. In the afternoon, delve into history at the War Remnants Museum. This museum presents a comprehensive and often harrowing view of the Vietnam War, providing deep insights into the conflict through impactful exhibits.

End your day with a visit to Ben Thanh Market, a vibrant marketplace that has been a key part of the city since 1870. Here, you can shop for souvenirs, sample local street foods, and immerse yourself in the lively atmosphere of this historic market.

Return to your hotel in the evening, with the option to either continue exploring the city’s vibrant nightlife or relax after an engaging day of sightseeing.

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 breakfast, meet your tour guide and driver at the hotel for a transfer to Cai Be. En route, stop at the Cao Dai Temple, a colorful and eclectic sanctuary that blends elements from various religions.

Upon arrival in Cai Be, immerse yourself in the charm of the Mekong Delta. Explore the waterways lined with lush plantations and visit local workshops where you’ll see traditional crafts such as rice popcorn, coconut caramel, and rice cakes being made.

Take a leisurely walk or trek along the village paths to discover the serene Phu Chau Pagoda. This ancient and tranquil site offers a peaceful escape and an opportunity to interact with local residents.
Enjoy a delightful lunch at a riverside restaurant, where you can savor the local specialty, elephant ear fish—a delicious and unique dish.

Conclude your Mekong Delta adventure with a relaxing boat ride through the winding canals, where you can sample fresh seasonal fruits while drifting past fruit-laden trees.

Return to Saigon in the late afternoon, with time to unwind after a day of cultural exploration and scenic beauty.

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 Hanoi

8:00 AM: Depart from your hotel to explore one of the most significant historical sites of the Vietnam War: the Cu Chi Tunnels. These extensive underground tunnels, which stretch over 250 kilometers, were built by the Viet Cong as part of their resistance against American forces. The tunnels were excavated over two decades using only rudimentary tools like pickaxes and shovels. Your visit will include a unique opportunity to enter and experience a portion of these remarkable tunnels.

You will also have the chance to visit the Ben Duoc Memorial Temple, a less touristy site dedicated to the Vietnamese who lost their lives in Cu Chi. This temple, built in 1993, honors their memory with solemn reverence.

Continue your journey to one of Vietnam's most revered sites—the Cao Dai Temple. Caodaism is a distinctive Vietnamese religion that combines elements of Confucianism, Buddhism, Taoism, and even Roman Catholicism. If your visit coincides with the midday service, you can witness the temple’s vibrant and unique rituals.

After lunch at a local restaurant, return to the city center and prepare for your flight to Hanoi.
In the early evening, arrive at Noi Bai Airport in Hanoi, where a professional tour guide and driver will meet you in the pickup area. Enjoy a scenic 45-minute drive to the Hanoi Old Quarter, with insights into the city's top attractions, cultural highlights, traffic, and cuisine along the way. Upon arrival at your hotel, check in and take some time to rest.

Please note that the standard check-in time is 14:00.

Included:
English speaking guide
Meal: B, L
Private transportation
Entrance fees
02 bottles of mineral water (500 ml)/pax/day
Flight :VN256 (SGN - HAN) - (Direct) / 20:45 - 22:50 - Vietnam Airlines - Economy / 06 tickets
Conifer Grand Hotel(ROH Room)
42 Tho Xuong, Hoan Kiem district, Ha Noi City, Vietnam

Day 5 :
Hanoi

Visiting the city's highlights, traveling to French Quarter, Ho Chi Minh complex. Discovering the old quarter

9:00 AM: Start your day with a visit to the Temple of Literature, Vietnam's first university, founded in the 11th century during the Ly Dynasty. This historic site, dedicated to Confucius, was a center for education and culture. Wander through its beautifully landscaped courtyards and marvel at the Khue Van Cac pavilion, a symbol of Hanoi’s scholarly legacy. You’ll also explore the stone steles that honor the top scholars of ancient Vietnam.

From there, continue to the Quoc Tu Giam, which served as a prestigious educational institution and remains a key cultural landmark in Hanoi.
Afterward, choose one of Hanoi’s renowned museums for a deeper dive into the city’s history and culture. Options include the National Museum of Vietnamese History, Hoa Lo Prison Museum, the Museum of Ethnology, or the Fine Arts Museum. Enjoy a leisurely lunch or a drink on your own at a nearby café.

In the afternoon, discover the charm of Hanoi’s French Quarter, often compared to a “mini Paris” with its elegant, tree-lined boulevards, historic government buildings, and grand squares. Visit the exterior of Ho Chi Minh’s Mausoleum, then take a relaxing walk through the surrounding Presidential Gardens and see Ho Chi Minh’s Stilt House, where he lived and worked.

Next, head to the One Pillar Pagoda, a unique and historic landmark renowned for its distinctive architecture. Depending on your group’s interests, you may spend one to two hours exploring this iconic site.

Proceed to Quan Thanh Temple, one of Hanoi’s four sacred temples, built in the 11th century under King Ly Thai To. This temple, dedicated to the deity Tran Vu, holds significant importance in Taoist tradition.
Enjoy a scenic stroll along the picturesque West Lake, and visit the Tran Quoc Pagoda, one of the oldest pagodas in Vietnam, dating back to the 6th century during the reign of Emperor Ly Nam De.
Wrap up your day in the vibrant Hanoi Old Quarter, a historical area with a lively atmosphere. Established as a trading hub in the 15th century, the Old Quarter’s 36 streets are famous for their specialized crafts and street food. Wander through its narrow alleys, traditional tube houses, and bustling markets, absorbing the rich culture and history.

End your day with a traditional water puppet show, a unique art form that has been performed since the 11th century. The show, set on a water stage and accompanied by live traditional music, offers a captivating insight into Vietnamese folklore and daily life.

Return to your hotel for a relaxing evening after a day filled with exploration and cultural 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

A full day to explore Ninh Binh at Hoa Lu - Tam Coc - Bich Dong

8:00 AM: Set off for Ninh Binh, a region renowned for its rich historical, cultural, religious, and natural wonders. As you journey through the Red River Delta, feel free to pause for photographs of the picturesque landscape.

Arrive in Hoa Lu, the ancient capital of Vietnam from the 10th to the 11th century. The site is nestled amidst dramatic limestone peaks and rivers that naturally shield it, creating a stunningly scenic backdrop. Here, you’ll visit the temples dedicated to King Dinh Tien Hoang of the Dinh Dynasty (968-980) and King Le Dai Hanh of the Le Dynasty (980-1009). These temples, built in the 17th century, honor the kings who played pivotal roles in liberating the country from Chinese rule after a millennium of occupation.

Next, head to Bich Dong, a traditional pagoda set in the Red River Delta. Built in the 15th century, this pagoda is an emblem of local religious heritage. Cross a stone bridge to reach Chua Ha, then climb over 100 steps to Chua Trung, the cave pagoda renowned for its unique clay sculptures. Continue your ascent to Chua Thuong, where you can learn about Buddhism and take in breathtaking views of the surrounding countryside.

Enjoy a local lunch at a nearby restaurant, savoring regional flavors before continuing to Tam Coc. Often called the "Halong Bay on Land" and featured in the French film "Indochine," Tam Coc is famed for its dramatic landscapes and serene river cruises.

Upon arrival at the Tam Coc pier, board a private sampan boat for a 90-minute leisurely cruise along the Ngo Dong River. Glide through three scenic caves, marveling at the stunning karst formations, lush rice paddies, and quaint villages that line the riverbanks.

Return to Hanoi around 6:00 PM, reflecting on a day filled with cultural exploration and natural beauty.

Included:
English speaking guide
Meal: B, L
Boat: Tam Coc
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

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

8:00 AM – 8:30 AM: Our driver will pick you up from your hotel in Hanoi’s Old Quarter or from our Shuttle Bus stop if you're staying outside this area (additional fees may apply). Enjoy a scenic drive to Halong City, which takes about 2.5 to 3 hours, with an optional restroom break en route.

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

12:00: Board the cruise ship, receive a welcome drink, and listen to a brief introduction. Check into your room and get ready for lunch.

12:30: Enjoy a buffet lunch with both Vietnamese and international options while cruising Halong Bay, observing iconic landmarks such as the Incense Burner, Dog Stone Islet, Fighting Cock Islet, and Three Coconuts Island.

14:30: Further explore Halong Bay with a visit to the Pearl Farm, where you can kayak and admire the stunning natural beauty of the bay.

16:00: Visit Sung Sot Cave, also known as the Cave of Surprises, the largest limestone cave in Halong Bay. Marvel at the impressive stalactites and stalagmites formed over millions of years. (Proper footwear is recommended, particularly for wet conditions.)

17:45: Return to the boat and enjoy Happy Hour at the bar (buy 2, get 1 free).

(Optional: Massage services are available; please book directly with the Cruise Manager.)

19:30: Enjoy a deluxe dinner featuring a mix of traditional and fusion cuisine prepared by our expert chefs.

21:00: After dinner, unwind at the bar and spa, try squid fishing, watch a movie in your cabin, play cards or chess, or relax on the sundeck.

23:00: Overnight on the cruise ship.

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 transfering back to Hanoi

06:15: Start your morning with a Tai Chi session on the sundeck to invigorate your senses, then head to the restaurant for breakfast.

06:30: Enjoy a breakfast spread with coffee, tea, and pastries.

07:30: Explore Titov Island, renowned for its stunning beaches and panoramic views of the bay from its top. (Proper footwear is recommended, especially if conditions are wet.)

09:30: Return to the cruise ship, check out, and settle any bills at the reception.

10:00: Relish a brunch while cruising back to Tuan Chau Marina. Relax on the sundeck or in the restaurant.

11:30: Disembark at Tuan Chau Marina and bid farewell to the crew.

Your driver will meet you at the Cruise Waiting Lounge to transfer you back to Hanoi (extra charges may apply). The trip takes about 2.5 to 3 hours with an optional 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, Tam Coc
  • Private car following itinerary
  • Shuttle bus: Hanoi - Tuan Chau
  • Flight Ticket: VN256 SGN - HAN (Vietnam Airlines - Economy)
  • Meal: Breakfast: 08, Lunch: 05, Dinner: 01
  • Bike: Cai Be
  • Leisure: Water puppet, Swimming, Squid fishing, Morning Tai Chi
  • Cooking class: Halong (on board) - cooking demonstration
  • Service charges and Taxes

Cost Excludes

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

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The package typically includes accommodation, meals (daily breakfast and selected lunches/dinners), domestic flights, private transportation, guided tours, entrance fees, and a cruise in Halong Bay.

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Is this tour suitable for families?

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Yes, this tour is family-friendly, with activities that appeal to all ages. Please let us know if you have specific needs or requests for your family.

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When is the best time to visit Vietnam?

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The ideal time to visit is generally from September to April, when the weather is cooler and less humid, although each region has its own best seasons.

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What should I pack for this tour?

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Pack lightweight clothing, comfortable walking shoes, swimwear for Halong Bay activities, sunscreen, a hat, and any personal items. A light jacket may be useful for cooler evenings.

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How do I book the tour?

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You can book the tour through our website, by contacting our customer service team, or visiting our local office. Early booking is encouraged to secure your spot.

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You can send your enquiry via the form below.

Mighty Mekong and Gorgeous Halong Bay | Vietnam Classic Tour – 09 Days
From $720
/ Adult
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  • Professional Local Guide