Traverse North and South Holiday | Vietnam Authentic Tour – 11 Days

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 your day by a nice walking tour. 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: Begin your day with a guided visit to the Temple of Literature, built in the 11th century during the Ly Dynasty to honor Confucius and serve as an educational institution for royal children. Wander through its tranquil gardens and admire the Khue Van Cac, or Pavilion of the Constellation of Literature, a symbol of Hanoi. Explore the World Heritage "stone steles," which inscribe the names of Vietnam’s most distinguished scholars, and visit Quoc Tu Giam, Vietnam’s first national university.

Next, immerse yourself in Vietnamese culture at the Ethnology Museum (closed on Mondays), which offers a deep dive into the country’s diverse ethnic groups through traditional costumes, tools, and artifacts. Spend approximately two hours exploring the exhibits to gain a comprehensive understanding of Vietnam’s cultural heritage.

In the early afternoon, discover the French Quarter, known as a "little Paris" within Hanoi. Stroll through its tree-lined streets, admire colonial-era government buildings, and visit the grand square. Stop by Ho Chi Minh’s Mausoleum for an exterior view, then enjoy a leisurely walk through the surrounding gardens. Visit the Presidential Palace and Ho Chi Minh’s stilt house, where he lived and worked.

Continue your exploration at the One Pillar Pagoda, an iconic symbol of Hanoi. Allocate 1 to 2 hours to fully appreciate this historic site, including the nearby Ba Da Pagoda, discreetly situated close to the Hanoi Cathedral, a fine example of French colonial architecture.

Conclude your day with a traditional water puppet show, an ancient Vietnamese art form that dates back to the 11th century. These captivating performances use puppets on water to depict rural life, culture, and folklore, often accompanied by live traditional music.

Return to your hotel and unwind after a day of cultural and historical 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

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

At 8:00 AM, set out from Hanoi and head to Ninh Binh, traveling through the scenic rice and vegetable fields of the Red River Delta. Upon arrival, you can opt for a 15km bicycle ride or a leisurely walk through the local villages. As you explore, enjoy the picturesque views of expansive rice fields, meandering rivers, and majestic limestone peaks. Take advantage of various stops to capture stunning photographs and engage with the friendly local residents.

Next, visit the historic Thung La Temple, dating back to the 11th century. Here, you’ll meet Mr. Tuong, the temple’s guardian, who will share fascinating insights into the temple’s history and treat you to a traditional drum performance.

Following your visit to the temple, take a peaceful sampan boat ride through the Van Long Nature Reserve. Glide along tranquil waterways surrounded by dramatic limestone formations, and keep an eye out for white monkeys and egrets among the cliffs.
After the boat ride, explore a nearby weaving village where you can join a weaving workshop led by Mrs. Lam, a skilled local artisan. She will teach you traditional weaving techniques and help you craft your own textile piece.

Return to Hanoi in the evening, concluding a day of cultural exploration and natural beauty in Ninh Binh.

Included:
English speaking guide
Meal: B, L
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 from Halong to Lan Ha bay, swimming & kayaking, cooking class

9:00 AM: Pickup from your hotel in the Hanoi Old Quarter for a scenic drive of about two and a half hours to Lan Ha Bay via National Highway No.5B. As you travel through the Red River Delta, take in views of villages and rice fields. A short stop will be made for refreshments and restroom needs. Arrive at the harbor around noon and receive a warm welcome at the cruise reception.

12:00 PM: Be greeted by the Peony Cruises team at Tuan Chau Port in Quang Ninh.

12:30 PM: Transfer from the wharf to our elegant Peony Cruises via a support vessel. During this time, you will be briefed on the day's itinerary.

1:00 PM: Enjoy a welcome drink and cool towels upon boarding, followed by a delectable lunch featuring fresh local ingredients and various dishes. Set sail for Lan Ha Bay, celebrated for its natural beauty.

3:30 PM: Visit the Tra Bau region, known for its untouched beauty and scenic landscapes. Take part in kayaking to explore the limestone islands or relax in the Jacuzzi pool on the boat.

5:30 PM - 6:30 PM: Attend a cooking demonstration to learn how to make classic Vietnamese spring rolls. Alternatively, go to the top deck to experience the stunning sunset over the Gulf of Tonkin and take advantage of Happy Hour with a BUY ONE GET ONE FREE offer at the bar.

7:30 PM: Enjoy a romantic dinner with local cuisine, expertly prepared by our chef, in an intimate setting.

9:00 PM - 10:00 PM: Enjoy exotic cocktails and drinks at the sky bar (additional charges may apply). Opt for a spa treatment (extra cost) or relax on the top deck. You can also try 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 flight to Ho Chi Minh city

6:45 AM - 7:15 AM: Breakfast will be served as the boat heads back to Gia Luan jetty. (The breakfast timing may be adjusted to fit the actual schedule.)

7:30 AM - 9:00 AM: Explore the Cat Ba World Biosphere. A 30-minute transfer will take you from Gia Luan to Trung Trang Cave, one of Cat Ba Island's most remarkable caves. The cave boasts an array of stalactites in various shapes and represents a significant geological and ecological site.

9:30 AM: Return to the main boat to check out of your cabin. Ensure your luggage is placed outside the cabin.

Enjoy an early lunch at the restaurant and settle any bar charges at the desk (if applicable).

10:30 AM - 11:00 AM: Disembark from Peony Cruises and transfer back to Tuan Chau Port.

11:30 AM - 12:00 PM: Be ready for your departure at Tuan Chau Port.

Your driver will meet you at the harbor for a two-and-a-half-hour drive back to Hanoi via Highway No.5B, passing through scenic landscapes of the Red River Delta and villages. You will be dropped off at your hotel in the Hanoi Old Quarter.

Afterward, a private driver will pick you up from your hotel lobby for a 45-minute drive to Noi Bai Airport (either international or domestic, based on your preference). We hope you enjoyed your stay!

Note: Arrive at the airport 3 hours before an international flight and 2 hours before a domestic flight.

Upon arrival at Tan Son Nhat Airport, you’ll be met by a professional tour guide and driver. During the 30-minute drive to the city center, your guide will provide an overview of the city's highlights, culture, and dining options.

Proceed to your hotel upon arrival.

Note: Check-in time at the hotel is 2:00 PM.

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 :VN265 (HAN - SGN) - (Direct) / 20:30 - 22:30 - 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: Begin your adventure with a departure from your hotel to the historic Independence Palace, formerly the residence and headquarters of the South Vietnamese President. Discover the poignant moments of 1975 when the palace was stormed by North Vietnamese forces, marking a pivotal end to the Vietnam War. Explore the five-story edifice, where rooms have been meticulously preserved in their 1960s-70s splendor, and venture into the intriguing underground bunker.

Next, enjoy a leisurely stroll through the city, starting with the stunning Notre Dame Cathedral of Saigon, an architectural gem from 1863 to 1880, echoing the grandeur of French colonial design. Continue your walk along Nguyen Hue Boulevard, the vibrant heart of Saigon, leading you to the city's iconic Saigon Central Post Office. This architectural marvel, designed by the illustrious Gustave Eiffel, is not just a functional post office but also a feast for the eyes with its exquisite interior decor.

A short drive will take you to Binh Tay Market, the bustling epicenter of Saigon's Chinatown. Here, immerse yourself in the lively market atmosphere, explore an array of clothing, souvenirs, and delicious street food. Savor the local flavors in the market's food court.

Following your market visit, journey to Quan Am Pagoda, one of the city's oldest pagodas. Dedicated to Guan Yin, the goddess of mercy, this serene sanctuary offers a glimpse into Taoist traditions and local spiritual practices.

Conclude your day with a visit to the FITO Museum, dedicated to traditional Vietnamese medicine. Marvel at ancient herbal recipes, mystical concoctions, and unique medicinal artifacts.

At the end of this enriching day, we'll return you to your hotel for a well-deserved rest.

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: Leave from your hotel for a fascinating journey to the Cu Chi Tunnels, one of the most significant sites of the Vietnam War. Explore this extensive underground network, stretching over 250 kilometers, where the Viet Cong waged their relentless guerrilla warfare against American forces. These tunnels, painstakingly dug over two decades with nothing but pickaxes and shovels, offer a gripping insight into wartime resilience. Your visit includes an adventurous opportunity to enter and experience a section of these historic tunnels.

Afterward, head to the nearby Ben Duoc Memorial Temple. Established in 1993, this less-visited site commemorates the Vietnamese lives lost in Cu Chi and provides a quieter, more reflective experience.
Next, journey to the Cao Dai Temple, one of Vietnam’s most revered spiritual landmarks. Caodaism is a unique Vietnamese religion blending elements of Confucianism, Buddhism, Taoism, and even Roman Catholicism. Attend the midday mass to witness the vibrant and colorful ceremonies of this fascinating faith.

Enjoy a meal at a local restaurant, savoring the flavors of traditional Vietnamese cuisine. By early afternoon, you’ll return to your hotel, enriched by a day of exploration and cultural immersion.

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

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: Transfer from your hotel to Ben Tre, a charming district in the Mekong Delta known for its coconut candy. Upon arrival at Hung Vuong Pier, board a boat for a leisurely cruise along the Ben Tre River, offering an insightful glimpse into local life along the water.

Continue your boat ride through picturesque canals to Nhon Thanh Village. Here, you'll have the opportunity to taste a variety of fresh, tropical fruits and witness the scenic beauty of rice paddies, vegetable gardens, and coconut groves. Explore the village by bike or tuk-tuk, taking in the lush landscapes and vibrant local culture.

Enjoy a delicious lunch featuring the region's specialty, elephant ear fish, prepared fresh in the village. Following your meal, take a short walk to further immerse yourself in the local way of life.

In the afternoon, embark on a serene boat ride through a narrow canal surrounded by dense wild palm trees. Conclude your journey with a transfer to Cai Lay, where you'll be warmly welcomed by your homestay hosts.

Participate in a hands-on cooking experience, preparing the traditional dish Banh Xeo Nam Bo with your hosts. Enjoy this flavorful meal and spend the night in Cai Lay, embracing the local culture and hospitality.

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

8:00 AM: Start your day with breakfast at your homestay before setting off on a scenic bicycle tour. Spend 1 to 1.5 hours cycling from Dong Hoa to Hat Binh, passing through rich durian orchards, juicy sapota plantations, and thriving longan groves. This ride offers a deep dive into the local agricultural life. Upon your return, explore the lively village market and interact with the friendly locals.

If you’re interested in a more immersive experience, enjoy a 1-hour walk with a local guide along picturesque trails, then continue by bicycle to Ngu Hiep Island. This area, formed by the fertile silt of the Mekong River, provides a lush and authentic landscape. If you prefer not to cycle, ask your local guide to arrange a motorbike ride instead.

Depart for Long Xuyen with a stop in Sa Dec. Visit the Kien An Cung Pagoda, a significant spiritual site, and explore the historic house of Huynh Thuy Le, famously depicted in Marguerite Duras's L'Amant (The Lover). Wander through Sa Dec's vibrant market, renowned for its fresh produce and seafood.
Make a brief stop at a Cao Dai temple, known for its unique and colorful architecture, and a crocodile farm to see local aquaculture in action.

Arrive in Long Xuyen and check into your hotel for a restful overnight stay.

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

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