Vietnam Best Deal - 10 Days

Your Vietnamese adventure begins upon arrival in Hanoi. Our private driver will greet you at the airport, holding a sign displaying your name, and will escort you to your centrally located accommodation. The hotel is conveniently situated near the captivating Old Quarter, placing the city's vibrant culture just a short walk away. Use this time to either unwind after your flight or explore the city at your leisure.

Your cultural journey in Hanoi begins as our guide and driver collect you from your hotel. Our first destination is Tran Quoc Pagoda, a serene Buddhist sanctuary located on Golden Fish Island in West Lake. Established in the 6th century, it is Hanoi's oldest pagoda and a testament to Vietnam's spiritual heritage.

Next, we visit the Ho Chi Minh Complex, where the revered leader Uncle Ho rests. Here, you can view his embalmed body and stroll through the peaceful gardens and two historical houses where he lived and worked from 1954 to 1969. Afterwards, we see the One Pillar Pagoda, unique for its dedication to the Goddess of Mercy.

Our journey continues to the Vietnam Ethnology Museum, where you will learn about the culture of Vietnam's 54 ethnic groups. On Mondays, we instead visit the Vietnamese Women’s Museum, highlighting the pivotal role of women in the nation's history.

At midday, we enjoy a delightful meal at our restaurant, offering authentic Vietnamese cuisine with vegetarian options available.

Post-lunch, we explore the Temple of Literature, established in 1070 as Vietnam's first university. Our next stop is Hoa Lo Prison, constructed by the French between 1886 and 1901, during Vietnam's time under French Indochina. Known as Maison Centrale, it was infamous for its conditions and dubbed “A Hell on Earth.” Today, it serves as a museum, providing insights into Vietnam's struggle against French colonial rule.

Important Notes: Modest attire is required for visits to the Ho Chi Minh Mausoleum, temples, and pagodas, with shoulders and knees covered. The Mausoleum is closed on Mondays and Fridays; however, the grounds remain open for photography and exploration. It is also closed for maintenance from 15 June to 15 August.

Our day begins at 7:30 AM with a pick-up from your hotel in Hanoi. We head to Ninh Binh province, approximately 120 km away. After a relaxing drive, you'll have a brief 20-minute break before we continue to our first stop.

We arrive at Hoa Lu, the ancient capital of Vietnam. Here, you'll discover the city's historical significance and the reasons behind the capital's relocation to Hanoi. As we explore the well-preserved temples of King Dinh and King Le, dating back to the 17th century, you'll gain insight into Vietnam's architectural heritage and rich history.

Following this, we indulge in a buffet lunch at a local restaurant, with a selection of regional dishes including goat meat and fried rice, alongside vegetarian choices.

Next, we embark on a serene 1.5-hour bamboo boat journey through Tam Coc. You'll be captivated by the picturesque landscapes of rice fields, rivers, and the renowned cave system, often referred to as "Halong Bay on land."

We then enjoy a 45-minute bicycle ride around the village, offering a glimpse into the everyday life of the locals.

As the day concludes, we return to Hanoi by shuttle bus, wrapping up our insightful excursion to Hoa Lu and Tam Coc. Expect to be back at your hotel around 6:30 PM.

Halong Bay, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, is renowned for its stunning natural beauty. After breakfast, we will depart Hanoi for Halong Bay, with the cruise team scheduled to meet you at your hotel lobby between 8:00 and 9:00 AM (exact timing will be confirmed the day prior). We arrive at the jetty around midday, where you'll board the cruise. Following a welcome and check-in, lunch is served as we begin our voyage among the bay's striking islets.

This afternoon, enjoy activities including swimming, kayaking, or exploring caves, depending on the cruise itinerary, or take the opportunity to unwind on board. As the day concludes, the boat will anchor in a picturesque location—be sure to catch the sunset before dinner. We will spend the night on the boat.

Please note: Adverse weather may result in a change or cancellation of the itinerary if boats are restricted from leaving the port. Our travel consultant will provide alternative arrangements if necessary.

As dawn breaks over Halong Bay, we enjoy breakfast on board as the vessel makes its leisurely return to port. A light lunch is served before we arrive and disembark. You will then be transferred to Hanoi airport for your flight to Hoi An. On arrival, your driver will greet you and transfer you to your hotel for check-in. The afternoon and evening are yours to explore or relax at your leisure.

Enjoy a free day in the enchanting town of Hoi An. We suggest renting a bicycle from your hotel to explore at your own pace. Cycle through the picturesque streets towards the riverside or head to the beach, where you can unwind at one of the many quaint cafés with a refreshing fruit drink after a swim. The sea here is notably warm and calm, ideal for relaxation.

You might also wish to visit one of Hoi An’s renowned tailor shops. Many offer overnight services, creating bespoke clothing, bags, or shoes, making for a unique memento or gift.

As evening falls, take a stroll through the Old Town. The area transforms into a magical setting as shops illuminate their traditional lanterns, creating a fairytale ambiance. Street performances add a colourful flair to the evening, showcasing local culture in a vibrant display.

Enjoy your final moments in Hoi An before your private driver transports you to Da Nang Airport for your flight to Ho Chi Minh City. Upon arrival at Tan Son Nhat Airport, another driver will meet you and take you to your centrally located accommodation. The remainder of the day is yours to explore at leisure.

In the morning, we'll visit the Independence Palace, also known as the Reunification Palace. Built on the site of the former Norodom Palace, this iconic landmark of Ho Chi Minh City was designed by architect Ngo Viet Thu. We will then explore stunning French Colonial architecture, including Notre Dame Cathedral and the historic Central Post Office. Our next stop is the War Remnants Museum, which offers an extensive exhibition on the Indochina wars.

A local restaurant will be our venue for lunch. In the afternoon, we depart for the Cu Chi Tunnels, a journey of about one and a half hours by bus. Upon arrival, we will watch a brief introductory video about the tunnels' construction and the ingenuity behind life during wartime. You can explore the extensive tunnel system, which includes living quarters, kitchens, weapons factories, field hospitals, and command centres. Hidden trap doors and realistic wartime traps are also part of the experience.

Afterwards, savour a typical wartime snack of special tea and cassava. There will be an opportunity for rest, or you may opt to experience shooting at the range.

Escape the bustling streets of Ho Chi Minh City and journey to My Tho, a charming town on the banks of the Mekong River. Our first stop is Vinh Trang Pagoda, a historic site from the late 19th century, showcasing unique architectural styles.

Next, we board a traditional sampan to navigate the river's waters, passing the picturesque Dragon, Unicorn, Phoenix, and Tortoise Islands. Upon reaching Unicorn Island, you'll have the chance to wander country pathways, visit local orchards, savour tropical fruits, and enjoy traditional folk music performed by the islanders. We'll also visit a fruit plantation.

Cruise through the tranquil Thoi Son Canal on a hand-rowed sampan, taking in the serene rural landscape. A stop at a family-run business introduces us to a honeybee farm, where we can try honey tea, and a coconut candy workshop, providing insight into local craftsmanship.

We'll enjoy lunch at a nearby restaurant, followed by some leisure time. In the afternoon, cycle through Tan Thach Village to engage with the friendly locals and observe life in the Mekong Delta. Alternatively, you may choose to unwind in a hammock and enjoy the refreshing breeze.

Enjoy a wholesome breakfast as you prepare for the final day of your adventure in Vietnam. Once you've completed the hotel check-out process, you have some free time to explore the local markets and pick up souvenirs for your loved ones. Later, our private driver will take you to the airport for your return flight home.