Days/Nights
9D - 8N
Reveiews
Activity level
High
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Your trip in a nutshell
Itinerary
Day - 1
Hanoi: Ho Chi Minh's Legacy and Old Quarter Charm
We arrive in Hanoi and proceed to a professional breakfast. Our city tour begins at Ba Dinh Square, the vast central plaza hosting major national events. We start our visit at the Ho Chi Minh Complex, viewing the Mausoleum exterior and exploring his simple House-on-Stilts and the unique, 11th-century One-Pillar Pagoda. Next, we explore the Temple of Literature, considered Vietnam's first national university. We gain an immersive view of the capital by walking through the charming, chaotic streets of the Old Quarter and viewing Hoan Kiem Lake. After lunch and hotel check-in, the evening includes a professional Cyclo tour and dinner.
Day - 2
Hanoi - Ninh Binh - Hanoi
After breakfast, we drive south to Ninh Binh Province to explore Hoa Lu, Vietnam’s ancient capital from the 10th century. Here, we visit two historic temples dedicated to the country's early rulers: King Dinh Tien Hoang, the founder of the Dinh Dynasty, and the kings of the succeeding Le Dynasty. These sacred sites offer a glimpse into the nation's royal past. In the afternoon, we explore Tam Coc, famously known as "Halong Bay on Land." Part of the UNESCO-listed Trang An Scenic Landscape Complex, this area features dramatic limestone karsts rising above lush rice paddies. We take a peaceful boat ride along the river to admire the three natural caves and the stunning Bich Dong pagoda before returning to Hanoi for the night.
Day - 3
Hanoi to Halong Bay: Red River Drive and Dragon Cruise
We check out and travel east from Hanoi toward the coast, passing the lush rice paddies and rural life of the Red River Delta. We arrive at Halong Bay, a UNESCO World Heritage site known as the "Descending Dragon" of the Gulf of Tonkin. After boarding the overnight cruise and enjoying lunch, we explore the bay's thousands of odd-shaped limestone karsts. We stop to visit hidden grottoes, swim, or kayak near local floating houses. The evening on the water features a professional cooking demonstration followed by dinner and leisure time under the stars.
Day - 4
Flight to Da Nang: Coastal Arrival and Dinner
Following breakfast and a smooth checkout, we transfer to the airport for the journey south to Da Nang. Upon landing in this vibrant coastal city, known for its sandy shores and modern bridges, we proceed directly to a local restaurant for a welcome dinner. We then head to the hotel to settle in for the night.
Day - 5
Da Nang Highlights to Hoi An Lanterns
We begin the day in Da Nang by exploring the bustling Han Market, a center of local trade. Next, we view the massive Dragon Bridge, a steel structure shaped like a golden dragon spanning the river. We then travel to the Son Tra Peninsula to admire the Lady Pagoda, home to a tall white statue that looks out over the sea. After lunch, we drive to Hoi An. We take a walking tour through the preserved ancient town with its historic architecture. The day ends with a beautiful Lantern Boat Ride on the river, drifting among the colorful glowing lights before we return to Da Nang for the night.
Day - 6
Da Nang to Ba Na Hills: Golden Hands and Mountain Thrills
We travel from Da Nang to the cooler heights of Ba Na Hills. We ride a record-breaking cable car that soars over the thick forest to reach the resort. At the top, we walk across the famous Golden Bridge, a pedestrian path that looks like it is supported by giant stone hands. We also visit the Linh Ung Pagoda to see its tall white Buddha statue standing amidst the clouds. You will then have time to enjoy the rides and games at Fantasy Park, a fun indoor theme park inspired by French novels. We then descend the mountain and return to the city for a free evening.
Day - 7
Da Nang to Saigon: Colonial Gems and War History
We fly from Da Nang to Saigon (Ho Chi Minh City). Upon arrival, we explore the city's French colonial past, starting at the Central Post Office, a grand 19th-century building with arched ceilings. Right next door, we view the red-brick twin towers of the Notre Dame Cathedral. We then dive into modern history at the Reunification Palace, the site where the Vietnam War famously ended in 1975. Our final stop is the War Remnants Museum. Here, we see tanks, jets, and powerful photo exhibits that tell the story of the country's struggle for independence. We then check into our hotel for the night.
Day - 8
Saigon to Cu Chi: Subterranean Cities and Trap Doors
We leave Saigon after breakfast to explore the legendary Cu Chi Tunnels. This vast, 200-kilometer underground labyrinth served as a hidden base during the war. We learn how this "underground city" functioned, featuring secret trap doors, smokeless kitchens, field hospitals, and command centers that allowed soldiers to live beneath the earth. After watching a brief introductory film, you have the unique chance to crawl through a safe section of the tunnels to experience the tight, hot conditions firsthand. We then return to the city, leaving the rest of the day open for your own plans.
Day - 9
Saigon Departure: Final Breakfast and Farewell
We enjoy a final breakfast at the hotel in Saigon. We then check out and ensure a smooth, professional transfer to the airport. You depart with lasting memories of Vietnam’s history and culture as you board your flight back home, concluding our services.
Sightseeing's
