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Northern and Southern Vietnam Highlights | Classic Tour – 08 Days

8 Days
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A Great plan to explore Vietnam in 8 days, Short time but enough for an overview of Vietnam from Hanoi and Ninh Binh to Halong Bay then to Saigon, Mekong Delta River before flight home. Expect convenient, comfortable and professional service. A very suitable trip for a group of friends or family who would like to visit Vietnam with the limited time.

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Overview

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Overview

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

Visit: Hanoi – Ninh Binh – Halong Bay – Ho Chi Minh City (Saigon) – Ben Tre

Duration: 08 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

  • Visit Hanoi’s highlights.
  • Take an excursion to the bustling Old Quarter.
  • Enjoy boat ride in Tam Coc and its gorgeous landscapes
  • Overnight cruise in Halong bay
  • Discover Ho Chi Minh city (Saigon) and charming Mekong Delta River.

Itinerary

Welcome to Hanoi, enjoy a walking tour in the old quarter

Landing at the Noi Bai airport, you are welcomed by professional tour guide and driver at the pickup lobby. Enjoy 45-minute driving to the city center (Hanoi Old Quarter) with city's briefing information about the most visited spots, culture, traffic and cuisine....Arrive in your hotel, check in and have a rest.

Note: Hotel check in time at 14.00

Continue the day, tour guide will escort you walking around the peaceful Hoan Kiem Lake to the Opera House, stopping at the statue of King Ly Thai To and Vietnamese Government Guest House, Sofitel Metropole Hanoi. Walk back to the Old town, visit some main streets before returning to your hotel.

Option: If your flight arrives late or you are jet lag after long flight, the walking tour will be moved to the city tour day.

Included:
English speaking guide
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

Day 2 :
Hanoi

Visiting the city's highlights, travelling 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 by a local guide. Your first stop is the Temple of Literature, an 11th-century educational and cultural site dedicated to Confucius and Vietnam’s scholarly heritage. Wander through its tranquil gardens and admire Khue Van Cac, a symbol of Hanoi’s intellectual legacy. Explore the UNESCO-listed stone steles that honor past scholars and continue to the Quoc Tu Giam, Vietnam’s pioneering national university.

Next, immerse yourself in Hanoi’s history by visiting one of its notable museums. Options include the National Museum of Vietnamese History, the Hoa Lo Prison Museum, the Museum of Ethnology, or the Fine Arts Museum. After your museum visit, take a break for lunch or a refreshing drink on your own.

In the afternoon, venture into the French Quarter, known as "Little Paris," with its charming tree-lined boulevards, historic government buildings, and grand squares. Stop by the Ho Chi Minh Mausoleum (viewing from outside), then take a leisurely stroll through the botanical gardens to visit the Presidential Palace and Ho Chi Minh’s former residence on stilts.

Continue to the One Pillar Pagoda, a distinctive and historic monument symbolizing Hanoi. Depending on the size of your group, you may spend one to two hours exploring this site.

Visit Quan Thanh Temple, one of Hanoi’s four key temples, dating back to the 11th century and dedicated to the Taoist deity Tran Vu. Enjoy a peaceful walk along the West Lake, where you can take in beautiful city views.

Stop by Tran Quoc Pagoda, Hanoi’s oldest pagoda, established in the 6th century.

End your day with a unique experience at a traditional water puppet show. This 11th-century art form features puppets performing on water, showcasing Vietnamese culture, folklore, and daily life, often accompanied by live traditional music.

Return to your hotel in the evening, where you can relax after a day filled with cultural exploration.

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: Begin your adventure by meeting your local guide and driver at your lodging. Set off towards Ninh Binh, a captivating region adorned with historical, cultural, religious, and natural marvels. As you journey through the picturesque Red River Delta, feel free to stop and capture the stunning landscapes on camera.

Your first stop is Hoa Lu, the ancient capital of Vietnam from the 10th to the 11th centuries. This historical citadel, nestled amid limestone mountains and meandering waterways, offers an enchanting backdrop. At Hoa Lu, explore 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), both revered for their pivotal roles in liberating Vietnam from a millennium of Chinese rule. These temples, built in the 17th century, honor the legacy of these great leaders.

Next, visit Bich Dong Pagoda, a serene retreat nestled in the Red River Delta's countryside, constructed in the 15th century. Cross a stone bridge to reach Chua Ha, and then ascend over 100 steps to Chua Trung, a cave pagoda known for its unique clay statues. Continue your climb to Chua Thuong, where you'll not only delve into Buddhist traditions but also enjoy panoramic views of the surrounding fields.

Before heading to Tam Coc, often called the "Halong Bay on land" and featured in the renowned French film "Indochina," enjoy lunch at a local eatery. At Tam Coc's wharf, board a private sampan for a scenic boat ride along the Ngo Dong River. Glide through three captivating caves, marvel at the picturesque landscapes dotted with quaint villages, rice paddies, graveyards, and ancient temples.

Return to Hanoi by car around 6:00 PM, concluding a day filled with exploration and discovery.

Included:
English speaking guide
Meal: 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: Your journey begins with a pickup from your hotel in Hanoi’s Old Quarter or from our Shuttle Bus stop if you're located outside the Old Quarter (additional charges may apply). Enjoy a scenic drive to Halong City, taking about 2.5 to 3 hours, with an optional restroom break along the way.

11:00 AM: Upon arrival at Tuan Chau Marina, check in at the waiting lounge.

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

12:30 PM: Relish a lunch featuring both Vietnamese and international dishes as you cruise past notable landmarks like the Incense Burner, Dog Stone Islet, Fighting Cock Islet, and Three Coconuts Island.

2:30 PM: Continue exploring Halong Bay with a visit to the Pearl Farm. Take advantage of the opportunity to kayak and experience the bay’s beauty firsthand.

4:00 PM: Visit Sung Sot Cave, known as the Grotte des Surprising, the largest cave in the area. Marvel at the stunning formations of stalactites and stalagmites created over millennia. (Proper footwear is recommended, particularly in wet conditions.)

5:45 PM: Head back to the boat for Happy Hour at the bar (buy 2, get 1 free).

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

7:30 PM: Enjoy a deluxe dinner featuring a blend of traditional and contemporary dishes prepared by our expert chefs.

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

11:00 PM: Spend the night on board.

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 for a flight to Saigon

06:15: Start your day with a Tai Chi session on the sundeck to awaken your senses, followed by breakfast in the restaurant.

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

07:30: Visit Titov Island, known for its stunning sandy beaches and panoramic views of the bay from the top of the limestone island. (Proper footwear is recommended, especially when wet.)

09:30: Return to the cruise ship. Check out and settle your bill at the reception.

10:00: Enjoy 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.

Transfer back to Hanoi, then to airport for flight to Saigon. On arrival, get a pick up to hotel in the city center.

Included:
English speaking guide
Meal: B, L
Private transportation
Entrance fees
Leisure: Morning Tai Chi
02 bottles of mineral water (500 ml)/pax/day
Flight :VN221 (HAN - SGN) - (Direct) / 21:00 - 23:15 - Vietnam Airlines - Economy / 06 tickets
Elios Hotel(Senior Superior Room)
233 Pham Ngu Lao street, district 1, Ho Chi Minh City, Vietnam

A great day to discover China town, Binh Tay Market, Fito musem, War Remnant musem, Independence palace and French architecture buildings

8:30 AM: Depart from your hotel for a short drive to Binh Tay Market, the bustling heart of Saigon’s Chinatown. As the largest market in the city, Binh Tay offers an array of stalls selling everything from clothing and trinkets to a variety of food items.

Don’t miss the food court where you can sample a range of local delicacies and street food.

Next, visit Quan Am Pagoda, one of the oldest temples in the city, dedicated to Guan Yin. This pagoda is a significant site in Taoism and the folk worship of the “Queen of Heaven.”

Continue to the FITO Museum, where you'll discover an extensive collection of traditional medicine artifacts, including ancient herbal recipes, magical elixirs, and unique tools.

After a lunch break, head to the War Remnants Museum, one of Ho Chi Minh City’s most visited attractions. The museum provides a sobering and comprehensive look at the Vietnam War, offering perspectives that might be more intense than what you are accustomed to.

From there, visit the Reunification Palace, formerly the residence and office of the Presidents of South Vietnam. Explore the historic site, including the famous North Vietnamese tank that ended the war in 1975, and view the preserved rooms styled from the late 1960s and 1970s, as well as the fortified basement.

In the afternoon, take a leisurely walk through the city to admire French colonial architecture. Marvel at the Notre Dame Cathedral, the Post Office with its stunning interior, and the City Hall.

Before returning to your hotel, you have the option to visit Ben Thanh Market, a city landmark since 1870. This vibrant market not only serves the daily needs of locals but is also a great place to pick up souvenirs and enjoy more local street food.

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

Traveling to Mekong, enjoying boat trips, biking, interacting with local people in Ben Tre.

8:00 AM: Move from your accommodation by a tour guide and driver, who will whisk you away to Ben Tre, a picturesque district in the Mekong Delta famous for its delicious coconut candy. Upon arrival at Hung Vuong Pier, board a boat for a scenic cruise along the Ben Tre River, where you’ll witness the vibrant daily life of the locals.

Continue your journey by boat to Nhon Thanh Village, where you'll have the opportunity to sample fresh organic products straight from the source. Explore the area further with a bike ride or tuk-tuk tour through the tranquil towns, offering stunning views of sprawling coconut plantations, rice fields, and verdant vegetable gardens. Savor a delightful lunch featuring the region's specialty, elephant ear fish.

After a stroll through the village to absorb the local ambiance, embark on a leisurely boat ride along serene, palm-fringed canals. As the afternoon unfolds, you'll be transferred back to Saigon, carrying with you unforgettable memories of the Mekong Delta.

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

Transferring to airport for flights to next destinations

Private driver will pick you up at the hotel lobby for about 30 minutes to Tan Son Nhat airport (international or domestic hall according to your request). Thanks for the visit to our city.

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

In the rush hour (07:00 – 08:30 AM and 16:30 – 18:30 PM), it takes around 1 hour from city center to Tan Son Nhat airport.

Included:
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: Tam Coc, Ben Tre
  • Private car following itinerary
  • Shuttle bus: Hanoi - Tuan Chau
  • Flight Ticket: VN221 HAN - SGN (Vietnam Airlines - Economy)
  • Meal: Breakfast: 03, Lunch: 05, Dinner: 01
  • Bike: Ben Tre
  • 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 the best time to visit Vietnam for this tour?

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The best time to visit is from September to April when the weather is generally cooler and drier, making it ideal for sightseeing.

 

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How do we get from one city to another?

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Transportation will be provided through a combination of domestic flights, comfortable trains, and private vehicles, ensuring a smooth travel experience.

 

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Are meals included in the tour package?

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Yes, most packages include daily breakfast, as well as selected lunches and dinners. Please check the itinerary for specifics.

 

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What should I pack for this tour?

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We recommend lightweight clothing, comfortable walking shoes, a hat, sunscreen, and a light jacket for cooler evenings, especially in the north.

 

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Is this tour suitable for families?

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Absolutely! The tour is family-friendly and offers activities that can be enjoyed by travelers of all ages.

 

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Will I have free time during the tour?

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Yes, the itinerary includes free time for you to explore at your leisure or relax, allowing for a personalized travel experience.

 

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Northern and Southern Vietnam Highlights | Classic Tour – 08 Days
From $674
/ Adult
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  • No Booking Fees
  • Professional Local Guide