Vietnam Highlights in the North and South | Vietnam Authentic Tour – 09 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 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 exploration with a visit to the Temple of Literature, an 11th-century sanctuary established during the Ly Dynasty to honor Confucius and serve as a prestigious educational institution for imperial scholars. Stroll through the serene gardens to Khue Van Cac, the emblematic archway that symbolizes the city’s scholarly heritage. Admire the World Heritage "stone steles," which commemorate the achievements of Vietnam’s most celebrated scholars, and explore Quoc Tu Giam, the nation’s first university.

Next, head to the Ethnology Museum (closed on Mondays), which provides a comprehensive look into Vietnam’s rich cultural tapestry through exhibits of traditional costumes, artifacts, and the architectural styles of various ethnic groups. Allocate around two hours to fully appreciate the museum’s extensive displays.

In the afternoon, wander through Hanoi’s French Quarter, affectionately known as "little Paris," with its elegant tree-lined boulevards, grand colonial buildings, and bustling squares. Take a leisurely walk through the botanical gardens, leading to the Presidential Palace and Ho Chi Minh’s historic stilt house, where he lived and worked. A visit to the Ho Chi Minh Mausoleum will offer a glimpse of the nation's reverence for its leader, though viewing is from the outside only.

Proceed to the One Pillar Pagoda, one of Hanoi’s most iconic landmarks. Depending on the size of your group, you may spend one to two hours exploring this significant site.

Conclude your day with a traditional water puppet show, a unique Vietnamese art form that originated in the 11th century. Watch as intricately crafted puppets glide across a water stage, portraying scenes of Vietnamese folklore, culture, and daily life, accompanied by live traditional music.

Return to your hotel in the evening to relax after a day rich in cultural and historical 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

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

8:00 AM: Depart from Hanoi and journey to Ninh Binh, passing through the scenic beauty of the Red River Delta, with its lush rice paddies and vegetable fields. Opt for a leisurely 15-kilometer bike ride through charming villages or explore on foot. Follow the dykes for stunning views of rice fields, rivers, and dramatic limestone hills. Make stops along the way to capture photographs and interact with local residents.

Arrive at Thung La Temple, a historic site dating back to the 11th century. Meet Mr. Tuong, the temple guardian, and engage in an authentic conversation while enjoying a traditional drum performance.
Next, embark on a serene sampan boat ride through Van Long Nature Reserve. Glide among the limestone karsts and waterways, with a chance to spot elusive white monkeys and graceful egrets against the backdrop of stunning cliffs.

After the boat trip, visit a local weaving village. Participate in a weaving workshop guided by Mrs. Lam, a skilled local craftswoman. She will introduce you to traditional weaving techniques, offering you the chance to try your hand at this intricate craft.
Conclude your day with a return trip to your hotel in Hanoi, reflecting on a day filled with cultural immersion and natural beauty.

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

You’ll be picked up from your hotel in Hanoi Old Quarter at 9:00 AM for a two-and-a-half-hour drive to Lan Ha Bay via National Highway No5B. The route takes you through scenic villages and rice fields in the Red River Delta. A brief stop will be made for refreshments and restroom needs. You’ll arrive at the harbor around noon and receive a warm welcome at the cruise reception.

By 12:00 PM, the Peony Cruises crew will greet you at Tuan Chau Port in Quang Ninh Province. At 12:30 PM, you’ll transfer from the wharf to board the luxurious Peony Cruises, with an itinerary briefing provided during the transfer.

At 1:00 PM, enjoy a welcome on board with fresh drinks and warm towels, followed by a special lunch with fresh and delicious Vietnamese dishes. The cruise will then embark on a journey through Lan Ha Bay, known for its stunning natural beauty.

At 3:30 PM, explore the Tra Bau area, famous for its unspoiled natural landscapes. You can kayak among the limestone islands or relax in the Jacuzzi pool on Peony Cruises.

From 5:30 PM to 6:30 PM, participate in a cooking class to learn how to make spring rolls, a staple Vietnamese dish. Alternatively, head to the top deck to watch a stunning sunset over the Gulf of Tonkin. Enjoy Happy Hour with a BUY ONE GET ONE FREE offer at the bar, ideal for capturing sunset moments.
At 7:30 PM, enjoy a delightful local dinner prepared by our talented chef in an intimate and romantic setting.

From 9:00 PM to 10:00 PM, unwind with exotic cocktails at the sky bar (surcharge applies), or indulge in a spa treatment (optional). You can also relax on the top deck or 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: Swimming,Squid fishing
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

6:00 AM: Begin the day full of energy with a Tai Chi session and enjoy the sun as it rises beyond the horizon.

6:45 AM - 7:15 AM: Breakfast is served while cruising back to Gia Luan jetty. (Breakfast time may be adjusted to follow the real itinerary).

7:30 AM - 9:00 AM: Join the tour of Cat Ba World Biosphere. It takes 30 minutes to transfer from Gia Luan to Trung Trang cave – one of the most impressive caves in Cat Ba Island, Vietnam. The limestone cave has thousands of stalactites in various shapes, offering geological values with a typical cave ecosystem.

9:30 AM: Return to the main boat from the cave, and you will check out of your cabin. Luggage is to be placed outside of the cabin.

Early Lunch is served at the restaurant. Settle any bar bills at the restaurant's desk (if any).

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

11:30 AM - 12:00 PM: You should be ready at Tuan Chau port.

Welcome by driver at the harbor then enjoy 2 and a half hour travel back to Hanoi on the new highway No5B crossing the Red River Delta and villages. Drop off at your hotel (in the Hanoi Old Quarter).

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.

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
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 day with a visit to the Independence Palace, formerly the residence and office of the Presidents of South Vietnam. Explore the five-story building, including its preserved rooms from the late 1960s and 1970s, and the historic bunker. Admire the North Vietnamese tank that famously stormed the palace in 1975, marking the end of the Vietnam War.

Next, take a leisurely walk to the Saigon Notre-Dame Basilica, an exquisite example of French colonial architecture constructed between 1863 and 1880. Its grand design and serene atmosphere make it a standout landmark in the city.

Stroll down Nguyen Hue Walking Street, a vibrant area filled with shops, cafes, and iconic city landmarks. From here, head to the Saigon Central Post Office, an architectural gem designed by Gustave Eiffel. This working post office features stunning interior details and offers a glimpse into Saigon's colonial past.

Travel by car to Binh Tay Market in Saigon's Chinatown, a bustling hub with a myriad of stalls offering clothing, souvenirs, and local foods. Explore the market and its food court, where you can sample a variety of traditional Vietnamese street foods.

Continue to Quan Am Pagoda, one of the city's oldest temples, dedicated to Guan Yin, the Taoist goddess of mercy. This pagoda is an important site for Taoist worship and local folk beliefs.

Finally, visit the FITO Museum, which showcases traditional Vietnamese medicine. Discover ancient herbal recipes, mystical elixirs, and rare medicinal tools that reflect the rich history of traditional Vietnamese healing practices.

Conclude your day with a return to your hotel, enriched by a diverse range of cultural and historical experiences.

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: Depart from your hotel for a visit to one of the most significant sites in Vietnam’s wartime history: the Cu Chi Tunnels. This vast underground network, spanning over 250 kilometers, served as a crucial base for the Viet Cong during their resistance against American forces. These tunnels were painstakingly dug over twenty years using only basic tools. During your visit, you'll have the opportunity to explore some sections of the tunnels firsthand.

Next, head to the Ben Duoc Memorial Temple, a poignant and less-visited site built in 1993 to honor the Vietnamese who lost their lives in Cu Chi. This memorial offers a solemn tribute to the sacrifices made during the conflict.

Continue your journey to the Cao Dai Temple, a uniquely Vietnamese religious site that blends elements of Confucianism, Buddhism, Taoism, and even Roman Catholicism. Attend the midday mass to experience the vibrant rituals and colorful ceremonies of Caodaism.

After a flavorful lunch at a local restaurant, return to your hotel in the afternoon. Enjoy the rest of your day at leisure, reflecting on the historical and cultural insights gained from your excursions.

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

Traveling to Mekong, enjoy boat trip, biking, interacting with local people in Ben Tre

8:00 AM: Heading to Ben Tre, a picturesque district in the Mekong Delta renowned for its coconut candy. Upon arrival at the Hung Vuong Pier, board a boat for a scenic ride along the Ben Tre River, immersing yourself in the local way of life and the vibrant river culture.

Continue by boat to Nhon Thanh Village, where you’ll have the opportunity to sample fresh, organic produce and experience the agricultural charm of the region. Explore the area further with an optional bicycle ride or tuk-tuk journey through the village, taking in the lush coconut groves, expansive rice fields, and verdant vegetable gardens.

Enjoy a delicious lunch featuring local specialties, including the renowned elephant ear fish, at a town eatery. After lunch, take a leisurely walk to delve deeper into the village’s daily activities and local culture.

Cap off your visit with a tranquil boat ride along a smaller canal, framed by wild palm trees, offering a serene and picturesque end to your exploration.
In the late afternoon, return to Saigon, reflecting on a day of rich cultural experiences and scenic beauty.

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