Classic Vietnam

Day 1: Ho Chi Minh City

Welcome to Hanoi! – the capital of Vietnam, is a bustling metropolis with a rich history and culture. We will pick you up at Noi Bai Airport and transfer you to the city center. You will have free time to relax after a long flight.

In the afternoon, we will visit Ba Dinh Square, the largest square in Hanoi. This is where all of the city’s biggest cultural and political events take place. We will take some photos of the Ho Chi Minh Mausoleum from the outside. Then we continued to the Temple of Literature, Vietnam’s first university. The temple was built in 1070, and the gardens and well-preserved architecture offer a relaxing glimpse into Vietnam’s past. After visiting the temple, we will walk around Hoan Kiem Lake, a picturesque lake in the heart of Hanoi. The lake is home to a number of temples and pagodas, and it is a popular spot for locals and tourists alike. We will then take a leisurely walk around the Old Quarter of Hanoi, a fascinating network of narrow alleys and shophouses. The Old Quarter is also known as “The 36 Streets,” as each street is named after the merchandise that was traditionally sold there. Overnight in Hanoi

Welcome to Da Nang, a vibrant coastal city in central Vietnam boasting stunning beaches, modern bridges, and rich history. Upon arrival, our local guide will assist with hotel check-in, allowing you to lighten your load. In the afternoon, explore Da Nang, starting with the panoramic views from Son Tra Peninsula. Visit the impressive Linh Ung Pagoda, home to Vietnam’s tallest Buddha statue. Tour the city, passing by iconic bridges—Han River, Thuan Phuoc, and the Dragon Bridge. Discover the Love Bridge and stroll through Apec Park for fantastic photo opportunities. Explore Marble Mountain, including Thuy Son, Huyen Khong Cave, and Tam Thai/Linh Ung Pagodas. Marvel at exquisite stone sculptures in Non-Nuoc Village before returning to our hotel for the night.

Welcome to vibrant Ho Chi Minh City! Formerly Saigon, it’s Vietnam’s largest hub for commerce, finance, and culture. Upon arrival, our local guide will assist your transfer to the hotel, allowing you to unwind after your journey. In the afternoon, we delve into history at the War Remnants Museum, offering a poignant look at the Vietnam War. Our journey continues to the Reunification Palace, a symbol of the war’s end in 1975, preserved in its original state. We then explore the city center, marveling at landmarks like City Hall, the Opera House, Notre Dame Cathedral, and the Central Post Office. The day concludes with a visit to Ben Thanh Market, a lively marketplace filled with souvenirs and local delights.

Day 2: Ho Chi Minh City

Escape the bustle of Ho Chi Minh and embark on a journey to My Tho, nestled on the Mekong River’s left bank. Explore the 19th-century Vinh Trang Pagoda, then board a sampan to cruise the Dragon, Unicorn, Phoenix, and Tortoise islands. Wander Unicorn Island’s country lanes, savor tropical fruits, and relish folk songs. Venture to a fruit plantation, row a sampan through Thoi Son canal, and discover a honey-bee farm. After a local restaurant lunch, cycle through Tan Thach village, immersing in Mekong Delta’s daily life. For a laid-back option, enjoy a hammock and cool breeze. Return to Ho Chi Minh City in the late afternoon.

Day 3: Hanoi

Embark on a morning drive to the Cu Chi Tunnels, a 200 km network that played a crucial role in war. These subterranean cities housed trap doors, living areas, storage, factories, hospitals, and more. After an insightful video on tunnel construction, crawl into a section for a firsthand experience. Amp up the adrenaline at the National Defense Sports Shooting Range (extra cost), firing M15, AK-47, and carbine rifles. Feel the soldier’s perspective under expert guidance. Return to Saigon by 15:00 and head to the airport for your flight to Hanoi (tickets not included). We’ll greet you at Noi Bai Airport and transfer you to your hotel for check-in.

Day 4: Hanoi

Join us on an enriching Hanoi city tour today! Your adventure begins in the Old Quarter. Explore Tran Quoc Pagoda, boasting a 1,500-year history as Hanoi’s oldest. Next, delve into the Ho Chi Minh Complex—home to the Mausoleum, Presidential Palace, and Stilt House, commemorating Vietnam’s liberator. After a delightful local lunch, explore the Vietnam Museum of Ethnology’s captivating indoor and outdoor exhibits. The Temple of Literature, Vietnam’s inaugural university since 1070, and the historic Hoa Lo Prison, also known as the Hanoi Hilton, wrap up our cultural journey.

Day 5: Halong Bay

Experience the charm of Hanoi Old Quarters as you are seamlessly transferred from your hotel to the awe-inspiring Ha Long Bay—a UNESCO-listed Natural World Heritage site. Arriving at the Cruise Port, a warm reception awaits, initiating your overnight cruise through the captivating “Descending Dragon” bay. Amidst limestone formations and karst grottoes, relish a delicious onboard lunch, explore grottos, indulge in swimming or kayaking, and marvel at floating houses and islets. Return to the cruise for a cooking demonstration, followed by a delightful dinner. Spend the evening engaged in boat activities or unwind at your leisure.

Day 6: Hanoi

Wake early to relish the sunrise over the Vietnamese “Eastern Sea.” Cruise through enchanting islets like Sail Island and Fisherman’s Head Rock in Ha Long Bay. After breakfast, explore unique rock formations with names like Butterfly Rock and Turtle Islet. Bid farewell to your cruise with brunch onboard before returning to Hanoi. Check into your hotel and enjoy leisure time.

Day 7: Hanoi

Bid farewell to Vietnam, a journey filled with memories. As you depart, meet our guide and driver at the hotel lobby, transferring you to the airport for your flight. Reflect on the diverse landscapes, captivating history, and warm hospitality that define this remarkable Southeast Asian odyssey.