Vietnam Highlights Southbound

Xin Chao! Welcome to Vietnam!
Upon your arrival at the airport, our driver will greet you and transfer you to your centrally located hotel for check-in.
Hanoi, the capital of Vietnam is a city of rich history and culture, where you can experience the fusion of ancient traditions and modern life. It is known for its beautiful landscapes, delicious food, and bustling streets full of energy. The place is filled with sights and sounds that make it one of the liveliest cities in Asia.
After checking in, you are free to unwind and explore the city at your own pace. Consider a leisurely stroll through the bustling Old Quarter, where vibrant street life and local shops await, or find some peace by Hoan Kiem Lake, a serene spot perfect for reflection amidst the city's lively atmosphere.
At 6:00 PM, meet with your tour guide for a group briefing, where you'll complete any necessary procedures and receive an overview of the days ahead. Afterwards, feel free to join your fellow travelers for dinner and enjoy some social activities together.

Accommodation

• Hotel in Hanoi

Meals included

No meal included on this day

Special notes

Please note that the standard hotel check-in time is 14:00. However, we will do our best to assist with early check-in if rooms are available. If your room is not ready, you can store your luggage at the hotel and explore the city while waiting. For guaranteed early check-in, we recommend booking pre-trip accommodation.
The group meeting scheduled for today is important. If you're running late or unable to attend, kindly inform your travel agent or the hotel reception. You can check the meeting location at the hotel reception or look for a note in the lobby.

For early risers, start your day by joining the locals around Hoan Kiem Lake for morning activities such as Tai Chi, aerobics, traditional music dance, or badminton. You might even enjoy a light back-flapping massage from the friendly locals – a fun and unique experience!
After breakfast, set off on a guided city tour to discover Hanoi's rich history and culture. Begin with the Ho Chi Minh Memorial Complex, which honors the leader of modern Vietnam. The site includes the Mausoleum, Presidential Palace, Uncle Ho’s house on stilts, and the Ho Chi Minh Museum. Nearby is One Pillar Pagoda, a symbol of Hanoi that has stood for almost a millennium, perched atop a single stone pillar and surrounded by peaceful gardens.
Next, head to the Temple of Literature, Vietnam’s first National University, founded in 1076 and functioning until 1802. Admire the impressive architecture and wander through the tranquil courtyards, where you’ll find nearly a hundred large stone stelae engraved with the names of top scholars who passed the Royal examinations and earned their Doctor Laureate title.
In the afternoon, enjoy free time to explore Hanoi at your leisure. You can delve deeper into the Old Quarter for some shopping or take part in optional activities like a cooking class to master traditional Vietnamese dishes, or embark on an adventurous motorbike and food-tasting tour of the city.

Included activities

• Hanoi sightseeing tour

Meals included

• Breakfast

Accommodation

• Hotel in Hanoi

Optional activities

- Cooking class: US$ 35
- Water puppet show: US$ 4

Start your day with breakfast at the hotel. Around 9:00 AM, you'll be picked up for the journey from Hanoi to Halong Bay. Upon arriving at the pier around noon, complete the boarding procedures, then set off on a cruise through the breathtaking landscapes of Halong Bay.
Famous worldwide, Halong Bay is a natural wonder featuring thousands of limestone islands that emerge dramatically from emerald waters, shaped by millennia of wind and water erosion. The bay is home to pristine beaches, charming floating villages, fascinating caves, and stunning vistas, making it making it an absolute must-visit destination for travelers exploring Vietnam.
As you cruise, enjoy a delicious lunch while taking in the awe-inspiring scenery of towering limestone formations.
In the afternoon, you can engage in thrilling activities like kayaking among the karsts to get a closer look at the breathtaking natural wonders. Alternatively, opt for a relaxing swim in the clear waters of one of the area's beautiful beaches. As the day winds down, enjoy the captivating sunset during a lively happy hour on the top desk.
The cruise will then head to the overnight anchorage, where you can enjoy the tranquility of the surroundings. Relish a delightful dinner on board and spend the night surrounded by the mesmerizing islands, beneath a star-filled sky.

Included activities

• Halong Bay cruise
• Halong Bay kayaking
• Overnight aboard

Meals included

• Breakfast
• Lunch
• Dinner

Accommodation

• Overnight aboard the boat

Special notes

Bring with you just enough for 2 days and one night. Packing list should include passport, some money for drinks, swimming wear, sun cream, sunglasses and, of course, your camera. A light bag should be enough and your main luggage can be left in the hotel’s storage.

Start your day early to witness the stunning sunrise over Halong Bay. After breakfast, board a rowing boat to glide through the clear waters, exploring a natural tunnel and a charming floating village, immersing yourself in the peaceful beauty of the bay.
Return to the main boat and continue your cruise through the enchanting landscapes of Bai Tu Long Bay and Halong Bay, with a delicious lunch served on board.
Arrive back at the harbor in the early afternoon (around 11:00 – 11:30, depending on the boat and tide). Disembark and head back to Hanoi.
Enjoy some free time in Hanoi to explore, shop, and have dinner. In the evening, at 8:00 PM, you will be transferred to the train station for an overnight journey to Hue.
Overnight on the train in an air-conditioned soft sleeper cabin.

Included activities

• Halong Bay cruise
• Halong bamboo boat rowing

Included meals

• Breakfast
• Lunch

Acommodation

• Overnight train

Special notes

The overnight train from Hanoi to Hue takes approximately 13 hours, with accommodations in a shared cabin for four people. Depending on the group's arrangement, you may share the cabin with passengers of different genders or those not part of the group. Each cabin is equipped with comfortable soft sleepers, and air conditioning, and can be locked from the inside. Toilets are available at both ends of the carriage, and a dining car at the end of the train offers simple meals and drinks. The train travels at around 60 kilometers per hour and might be a bit noisy for those not used to train rides, so consider bringing earplugs - or perhaps a bottle of vodka may be a great help :)

Arrive in Hue around 9:30 AM. A short transfer will take you to your hotel, where facilities are available for freshening up before the official check-in time. Take this opportunity to explore the area and get acquainted with your surroundings.
Hue, located in central Vietnam, is a city of great historical importance, once serving as the imperial capital. It offers a fascinating glimpse into Vietnam's royal past, set against a backdrop of beautiful natural scenery.
In the afternoon, embark on a guided tour of the Hue Imperial City. Built between 1804 and 1832, this vast complex was the political and royal center of Vietnam. Enclosed by over 10 kilometers of fortified walls and a protective moat, it houses the Royal City and the Purple Forbidden City, which were the private quarters of the royal family. Despite the damage from past conflicts, the remaining structures, pagodas, and monuments continue to reflect Hue’s rich heritage.
Back to the hotel and the evening is free for you to explore or relax at your leisure.

Included activities

• Hue Imperial Citadel tour

Meals included

No meal include on this day

Accommodation

• Hotel in Hue

Optional activities

Royal Banquet: US$ 15

This morning, after breakfast, you'll embark on a tranquil boat cruise along the Perfume River, one of Hue's most scenic natural landmarks. Your journey will take you to the Thien Mu Pagoda, an iconic symbol of Hue. Built in 1601, this ancient seven-story pagoda stands on a verdant hill overlooking the river. Revered for its spiritual significance, the pagoda offers a serene atmosphere and breathtaking panoramic views of the surrounding landscape, making it a must-visit destination in Hue.
After returning to the hotel, the rest of the day is yours to explore Hue at your own pace. You might want to visit the bustling Dong Ba Market, the largest in the city, where vibrant stalls offer a diverse range of fresh produce, specialty foods, and souvenirs. This is a perfect place to try "Banh Khoai," a crispy pancake that is one of Hue’s famous delicacies.
For a more adventurous experience, consider a motorbike tour through Hue’s countryside and hidden backstreets, which provides a thrilling way to discover the area’s lesser-known relics and natural beauty.

Included activities

• Perfume River cruise
• Thien Mu Pagoda

Meals included

• Breakfast

Accommodation

• Hotel in Hue

Optional activities

- Bicycle rent: US$ 2
- Country & back streets by motorbike with driver: US$ 15

Travel through picturesque rural landscapes, mountains, and lagoons as you make your way to the UNESCO World Heritage city of Hoi An. Along the way, stop at the pristine Lang Co Beach and cross the famous Hai Van Pass, the highest mountain pass in central Vietnam, which offers breathtaking panoramic views of the surrounding scenery.
Hoi An, located along the tranquil Thu Bon River, was a major trading port from the 15th to the 19th century, attracting merchants from Asia and Europe. Today, Hoi An’s well-preserved architecture, rich traditions, and distinctive lifestyle, combined with excellent tourist services, have made it one of the most beloved destinations in Vietnam.
In the afternoon, enjoy a guided walking tour through Hoi An’s ancient town. Wander its charming streets, lined with traditional architecture and lively markets, while your guide shares insights into the town’s history and culture.
Afterward, enjoy free time to explore the town at your own pace. Hoi An is a culinary haven, famous for its local specialties. Be sure to try dishes like "Cao Lau," a unique noodle dish exclusive to Hoi An, and "White Rose," delicate dumplings filled with shrimp or pork.
Hoi An is also a shopper's paradise, known for its handcrafted souvenirs and custom tailoring services, offering quick turnarounds for bespoke clothing, from suits and dresses to traditional Vietnamese attire, crafted by skilled local tailors. Don't miss the opportunity to explore these establishments and have the latest fashion styles made just for you.

Included activites

• Hoi An ancient town walking tour

Meal included

• Breakast

Accommodation

• Hotel in Hoi An

Optional activities

- Hoi An Memory Show: US$

Enjoy a relaxing day to explore the charming town of Hoi An at your own pace.
Stroll through the streets, browsing local shops, or find a cozy spot on a lantern-lit balcony at a local café, enjoying a café au lait or a cold beer while watching the world go by.
You might also consider renting a bicycle to cycle through the scenic countryside or head to the nearby beach. Alternatively, take a serene boat cruise along the Thu Bon River to admire the peaceful surroundings. For something more interactive, why not join a cooking class and uncover the secrets of preparing delicious Vietnamese dishes?

Meals included

• Breakfast

Accommodation

• Hotel in Hoi An

Optional activities

- Cooking class: US$ 25

Transfer to the airport for a short morning flight to Ho Chi Minh City. Formerly known as Saigon, this Vietnam's largest metropolis is a vibrant blend of old and new, East and West. The city buzzes with bustling traffic, a fast-paced lifestyle, towering skyscrapers, and an electrifying nightlife.
This afternoon, embark on a city tour to explore Ho Chi Minh City's key highlights. Begin with the War Remnants Museum, featuring extensive exhibits on Vietnam's recent wars. Next, visit the historic Independence Palace, formerly the Presidential Palace of South Vietnam.
Continue to the Notre-Dame Cathedral, a stunning neo-Romanesque church, notable for its two towering bell towers and beautiful stained-glass windows. Adjacent to the cathedral, explore the iconic Central Post Office, reminiscent of a 19th-century railway station. Stroll along Dong Khoi Street - formerly Rue Catinat - made famous by Graham Greene in his book The Quiet American, and pass by the City Hall, originally the Hôtel de Ville, and the Saigon Opera House, an elegant venue for cultural performances.
Conclude your tour at Ben Thanh Market, the city's central market, brimming with local produce, vibrant sounds, enticing aromas, and beautiful souvenirs, offering a true taste of local life. The evening is yours to experience Saigon's dynamic nightlife at your leisure.

Included activities

• Saigon cyclo tour & sightseeing

Included meals

• Breakfast

Accommodation

• Hotel in Ho Chi Minh City

TTake a drive out of the bustling center of Ho Chi Minh City to visit the Cu Chi Tunnels, one of Vietnam’s most renowned historical sites and a significant relic of the war.
This vast underground network stretches over 200 kilometers, with narrow tunnels connecting hideouts, shelters, fighting bunkers, hospitals, schools, and living spaces, all ingeniously designed with air filters, airtight covers, booby traps, and sentries. The tunnels served as a stronghold for the Viet Minh and Viet Cong during both the First and Second Indochina Wars, from 1948 to 1975.
Take a walk through the labyrinth of tunnels, nestled beneath tropical vegetation, gaining insight into how the Viet Cong lived and fought during the war. You’ll even have the opportunity to crawl through the tunnels, experiencing firsthand the conditions they endured and learning about the incredible resilience and determination of the Vietnamese people during the conflict.
Drive back to the city and the remainder of the day is free for you to relax or explore at your leisure.

Included activities

• Cu Chi Tunnels explore

Included meals

• Breakfast

Accommodation

• Hotel in Ho Chi Minh City

Set off from Ho Chi Minh City for an exciting day trip to the enchanting Mekong Delta, often referred to as the "rice basket of Vietnam". Over thousands of years, the Mekong River has shaped this region, leaving behind fertile alluvial soil and creating a landscape rich in evergreen rice paddies, tropical orchards, and scenic mangroves that line the waterways.
Hop aboard a traditional wooden boat for a peaceful cruise along a small river, where you'll witness local life unfolding along the riverbanks. Next, visit a lush orchard to enjoy freshly picked tropical fruits. Explore traditional workshops, where you’ll learn about the local craft of coconut candy making, pop rice production, and the art of weaving sleeping mats.
Take a motor cart ride through shady paths, passing coconut groves, expansive rice fields, and vibrant vegetable farms, offering a glimpse into the daily life of the people in this tropical paradise.
Your lunch today features a variety of Mekong Delta specialties, such as elephant ear fish, prawns, and crispy banana flower cake. Afterward, enjoy a peaceful sampan ride along winding creeks, surrounded by lush water coconut mangroves.
Drive back to the city and enjoy free time at your leisure. As tonight marks your final evening in Ho Chi Minh City, why not join your fellow travelers for a memorable farewell dinner and enjoy the time together.

Included activities

• Mekong delta discovery tour

Included meals

• Breakfast
• Lunch

Accommodation

• Hotel in Ho Chi Minh City

Today marks the end of your trip, with no scheduled activities. Use this time to relax, do some last-minute shopping, or enjoy a leisurely stroll. After checking out, you’ll be transferred to the airport for your departure flight. Safe travel and looking forward to seeing you again soon!

Meals included

• Breakfast

Special notes

The standard check-out time is 11:00 AM. If your departure flight is later and you'd like to keep the room longer, please inform us in advance so we can help to arrange it for you. Alternatively, you can store your luggage at the hotel and use the public facilities available.
If you’re planning to stay longer, we can assist with post-trip accommodations and arrange activities to enhance your experience.
In case you are interested in exploring more of the region? Browse our tour list for options, including set departure dates, to combine with your current itinerary.