Overview:
Day 1: Arrival in Hanoi
Day 2: Hanoi City Tour
Day 3: Mai Chau – Immerse in Tranquility and Ethnic Culture
Day 4: Ninh Binh – Explore the Enchanting Landscapes
Day 5: Halong Bay Cruise – Sail through Nature’s Masterpiece
Day 6: Hue – Unveiling Vietnam’s Imperial Heritage
Day 7: Hoi An – Step into a Timeless UNESCO Town
Day 8: Ho Chi Minh City – Embrace the Urban Energy
Day 9: Mekong Delta – Discover the Vibrant Delta Life
Day 10: Departure from Ho Chi Minh City
This overview provides a glimpse of the captivating cities and attractions awaiting you in Vietnam. The detailed itinerary will take you on a memorable journey, filled with cultural encounters, natural wonders, and historical treasures.
ITINERARY
Day 1: Hanoi Arrival – Welcome Dinner (Dinner)
Upon arrival, your private driver and local guide will warmly welcome you and transfer you to the hotel for check-in. Take some time to relax and settle in. In the early evening, your guide and driver will pick you up from the hotel and take you to an exceptional local restaurant for a memorable welcome dinner. This dinner serves as our gratitude for your trust and marks the beginning of unforgettable experiences. Breakfast and lunch are at your own leisure. Dinner is included. Overnight at a luxurious hotel in Hanoi.
Day 2: Morning Scooter Tour and Evening Street Food Adventure (Breakfast, Dinner)
Today, your guide will pick you up from the hotel for a thrilling scooter tour. Explore the vibrant Phung Hung Street adorned with stunning mural paintings that depict the history of Hanoi. Continue to Ngoc Ha Market for an immersive experience in the local hustle and bustle, followed by a visit to the iconic 100-year-old Long Bien Bridge. Ride your scooter to Giang Cafe on Nguyen Huu Huan Street, where you’ll savor an Egg Coffee or Cafe Sua Da, a local specialty. Conclude the tour by returning to your hotel.
In the evening, embark on a fascinating street food tour to discover the culinary wonders of Hanoi’s Old Quarter. Indulge in a variety of Vietnamese delicacies, such as banh cuon (steamed rolled rice pancake) and banh mi (the famous Vietnamese sandwich). Quench your thirst with fresh Vietnamese beer at a lively bia hoi (beer club) on Ta Hien Street. Next, savor the flavors of authentic pho at a renowned pho restaurant, choosing between regular pho or pho tron (pho noodle mixed with chicken without soup). Complete your culinary adventure with a delicious ice cream while strolling along the enchanting Hoan Kiem Lake. Bid farewell to your guide and enjoy an evening of exploration on your own. Lunch is at your own leisure. Overnight at the hotel in Hanoi.
Day 3: Hanoi – Immersive Mai Chau Homestay (Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner)
Embark on a scenic journey from Hanoi to Mai Chau, traversing picturesque valleys. Enjoy a delightful lunch at a local house along the way. Upon arrival in Mai Chau, check into a traditional stilt house belonging to the Thai ethnic minority. In the afternoon, engage in a light trek to explore the White Thai village and immerse yourself in the local culture. Discover the traditional arts and crafts village, and in the evening, relish a delectable dinner in the charming ambiance of a Thai traditional house on stilts.
Day 4: Mai Chau – Ninh Binh – Hoa Lu – Tam Coc (Breakfast, Lunch)
After breakfast, journey from Mai Chau to Hoa Lu via Nho Quan, a route renowned for its scenic countryside landscapes. Admire the plains, sugar fields, and captivating waterfalls along the way. Arrive in Hoa Lu in the early afternoon and indulge in a delicious lunch. Explore Hoa Lu, an iconic historical site known for its remnants and impressive limestone peaks, often referred to as the “Terrestrial Halong.” Discover the temples of two Dinh kings dating back to the 10th century, nestled amidst the lush forest. In the afternoon, board a sampan boat to explore the enchanting Tam Coc caves, surrounded by breathtaking rock formations and an aquatic landscape. After the boat ride, return to Hanoi by the end of the day. Transfer to your hotel for check-in. Dinner is at your own leisure. Overnight at the hotel in Ninh Binh.
Day 5: Hanoi – Halong Bay Cruise (Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner)
After breakfast at the hotel, your guide and driver will pick you up for a scenic drive to Halong Bay, a UNESCO World Heritage Site. Upon arrival at the Halong Bay pier, embark on a luxurious cruise ship and set sail through the breathtaking limestone islands and emerald waters.
Enjoy a sumptuous lunch onboard as the ship cruises deeper into the bay. Marvel at the stunning karst formations, towering cliffs, and hidden caves. You’ll have the opportunity to visit a floating fishing village, where you can learn about the local way of life and interact with the villagers.
In the afternoon, you can choose to relax on the sundeck, take a dip in the refreshing waters, or participate in various onboard activities such as cooking classes and squid fishing. As the sun begins to set, capture the mesmerizing views of the bay and indulge in a delectable dinner served on the cruise ship. After dinner, you can unwind with some onboard entertainment or simply enjoy the peaceful ambiance of Halong Bay. Overnight on the cruise ship in Halong Bay.
Day 6: Halong Bay – Hanoi – Hue (Brunch)
Start your day with a Tai Chi session on the sundeck, accompanied by the tranquil beauty of Halong Bay at sunrise. Afterward, enjoy a delicious brunch while cruising back to the Halong Bay pier.
Disembark from the cruise ship and meet your driver for the journey back to Hanoi. Upon arrival in Hanoi, you’ll be transferred to the airport for your domestic flight to Hue, the former imperial capital of Vietnam.
Upon arrival in Hue, your local guide will welcome you and transfer you to your hotel for check-in. The remainder of the day is free for you to explore the city at your own pace or simply relax and unwind. Lunch and dinner are at your own leisure. Overnight at a hotel in Hue.
Day 7: Hue City Tour (Breakfast, Lunch)
After breakfast at the hotel, embark on a full-day city tour of Hue, starting with a visit to the Imperial Citadel. Explore the ancient royal residence, including the Forbidden Purple City, which was once the private quarters of the emperor.
Continue to the Thien Mu Pagoda, an iconic Buddhist landmark situated on the banks of the Perfume River. Marvel at the beautiful architecture and serene surroundings of this historic temple.
Afterward, enjoy a boat ride along the Perfume River, taking in the scenic views of the countryside and visiting the peaceful Thuy Bieu Village. Here, you can participate in a hands-on workshop to make traditional Vietnamese conical hats and learn about the local way of life.
In the afternoon, visit the elaborate tomb of Emperor Minh Mang, known for its harmonious blend of natural landscapes and intricate architectural designs.
After the tour, return to your hotel and spend the evening at your leisure. Lunch is included. Overnight at the hotel in Hue.
Day 8: Hue – Hoi An Ancient Town (Breakfast)
After breakfast, depart Hue and embark on a scenic drive to Hoi An, another UNESCO World Heritage Site renowned for its well-preserved ancient town.
En route, stop at the Hai Van Pass, a mountainous stretch offering panoramic views of the coastline and surrounding countryside. Take some time to capture photos and admire the breathtaking scenery.
Arrive in Hoi An and check into your hotel. The rest of the day is free for you to explore the charming streets, visit local shops, or relax on the beautiful sandy beaches. Lunch and dinner are at your own leisure. Overnight at a hotel in Hoi An.
Day 9: Hoi An Walking Tour (Breakfast, Lunch)
After breakfast, embark on a guided walking tour of Hoi An’s enchanting ancient town. Stroll through the narrow streets lined with well-preserved merchant houses, vibrant temples, and ornate Chinese assembly halls.
Explore the Japanese Covered Bridge, a symbol of Hoi An, and learn about its fascinating history. Visit the bustling Central Market, where you can witness the local daily life and find an array of fresh produce, spices, and handicrafts.
Continue to a local family’s house to participate in a hands-on cooking class. Learn the secrets of traditional Vietnamese cuisine as you prepare and enjoy a delicious lunch with the guidance of a local chef.
In the afternoon, you have the option to explore more of Hoi An at your own pace. You can visit the numerous art galleries and tailor shops, take a boat ride along the Thu Bon River, or simply relax and soak in the ambiance of this charming town.
Lunch is included, and the rest of the day is at your leisure. Overnight at a hotel in Hoi An.
Day 10: Hoi An – Danang – Ho Chi Minh City (Breakfast)
After breakfast, check out from your hotel and transfer to Danang for your domestic flight to Ho Chi Minh City (formerly known as Saigon). Upon arrival, you will be greeted by your local guide and transferred to your hotel for check-in.
In the afternoon, embark on a city tour of Ho Chi Minh City, starting with the Reunification Palace, a historic landmark that witnessed the end of the Vietnam War. Visit the nearby War Remnants Museum, which provides a sobering glimpse into the country’s tumultuous past.
Continue to the Notre Dame Cathedral and the Central Post Office, two iconic colonial-era buildings that showcase French architectural influence. Take a leisurely stroll along Dong Khoi Street, known for its high-end boutiques, art galleries, and buzzing atmosphere.
End the day with a visit to the bustling Ben Thanh Market, where you can browse through a wide variety of local handicrafts, textiles, and souvenirs. Enjoy some free time to explore the market and savor the vibrant street food stalls.
Dinner is at your own leisure, and overnight at a hotel in Ho Chi Minh City.
Day 11: Cu Chi Tunnels and City Highlights (Breakfast, Lunch)
After breakfast, depart for a half-day excursion to the Cu Chi Tunnels, an extensive network of underground tunnels used by the Viet Cong during the Vietnam War. Explore the narrow passageways, hidden living areas, and trapdoors that made up this guerrilla base.
Return to Ho Chi Minh City and enjoy a delicious lunch at a local restaurant.
In the afternoon, continue your city tour by visiting the iconic landmarks, such as the Jade Emperor Pagoda, known for its intricate architecture and peaceful atmosphere. Explore the bustling Chinatown area of Cholon and visit the lively Binh Tay Market, where you can witness the vibrant trading activities.
In the evening, you have the option to explore the city’s vibrant nightlife, sample delicious street food, or relax at your hotel. Dinner is at your own leisure. Overnight at a hotel in Ho Chi Minh City.
Day 12: Mekong Delta Excursion (Breakfast, Lunch)
After breakfast, embark on a full-day excursion to the Mekong Delta, known as the “rice bowl” of Vietnam. Cruise along the scenic waterways and observe the daily activities of the local people.
Visit local villages and interact with the residents to learn about their traditional crafts and way of life. Enjoy a delicious lunch featuring regional specialties.
In the afternoon, take a leisurely sampan boat ride through the narrow canals, shaded by water coconut trees. Immerse yourself in the peaceful surroundings and observe the picturesque scenery of the delta.
Return to Ho Chi Minh City in the evening and spend the rest of the day at your leisure. Dinner is at your own leisure. Overnight at a hotel in Ho Chi Minh City.
Day 13: Departure from Ho Chi Minh City (Breakfast)
After breakfast, check out from your hotel and transfer to the airport for your departure flight. Bid farewell to Vietnam, taking with you unforgettable memories of its rich history, vibrant culture, and stunning landscapes.
This marks the end of your 13-day Vietnam adventure. Safe travels!
TOUR INCLUSIONS:
Accommodation: Stay in the chosen category of accommodation or similar (subject to availability).
Private Cruise: Enjoy a private cruise experience in Halong Bay.
Meals: Indulge in delicious meals as mentioned in the program, including breakfast, lunch, and dinner.
Local Activities: Experience local boat rentals and cycling adventures as specified in the program.
Airport Transfers: Convenient transfers to and from the airports in a private vehicle with air conditioning.
Domestic Flights: Economy class tickets for all domestic flights mentioned in the program.
Entrance Fees and Sightseeing: All entrance fees to attractions and sightseeing activities mentioned in the program.
Guided Tours: Benefit from the expertise of Vietnamese speaking guide(s) throughout the tour.
TOUR EXCLUSIONS:
Meals and Drinks: Any meals and drinks not specifically mentioned in the program.
International Flights and Taxes: Costs associated with international flight tickets and airport taxes.
Visa Fees: Fees for obtaining a visa upon arrival in Vietnam.
Tips and Personal Expenses: Optional gratuities and personal expenses.
Personal Insurance: Personal travel insurance coverage.
Unspecified Services: Any services not clearly mentioned in the program.
Please note that the above information is subject to availability and may be adjusted based on the specific tour package.
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