Itinerary

Show all

1. DAY 1: ARRIVE IN HANOI & LOCAL FOOD DISCOVERY

   Welcome to Hanoi – the capital of Vietnam. Upon arrival at Noi Bai International Airport, your tour guide and driver will meet you in the arrivals lounge and transfer you to your hotel in downtown.
   Later, hop on a cyclo, one of the most typical vehicles in Hanoi, is a human-powered transport with a seat at the front for passengers and the driver at the back. With this an hour leisurely ride, which is perfect chance for photos and slow-moving sightseeing, you will have a great chance to have the local closer touch. Disembark at the ancient city gate of O Quan Chuong, then continue walking to Thanh Ha local market and through bustling streets & alleys.
   Finish the day with a walking tour and   around the Old Quarter area. You will have a chance to not only sample delicious street foods but also to explore hidden alleyways and bustling markets. Our food tour includes "Bun Cha" - rice noodle with BBQ pork, one of the most favorable dishes for foreigners, then followed by "Banh Cuon" - steamed rice roll, "Banh Mi" - another well-known Vietnamese food that is even added into Oxford English Dictionary.
   Now, it is time for cup of Bia Hoi (Vietnamese draft beer) or enjoy a cup of unmissable Egg coffee, while we sit down and mingle with locals. It seems it is one not be missed for foodie in Hanoi.
   Overnight at hotel in Hanoi.
   Meals included: Dinner with streetfood.

2. DAY 2: HANOI - PAST & PRESENT

   This morning, start off your Hanoi city tour visit to the Ba Dinh Square where stands the Mausoleum of President Ho Chi Minh who led Vietnam to independence from French colonial rule. This site has become an important city landmark and a perfect place to learn more about Vietnam’s rich history. Here, you will take the group photo and hear the stories of the nation’s founder Ho Chi Minh.
   Next stop by visiting Ho Chi Minh Museum where tells the story of the different stages of Ho Chi Minh’s life with artefacts, photos, dioramas, and pop-art style illustrations and painting. Then, visit the iconic One Pillar Pagoda - a unique Vietnamese architecture reminiscent of a lotus blossom rising from a pond and hear the legend of its construction.
   Today, you will try Cha Ca La Vong – as known as Vietnamese Turmeric Fish with Dill. Not just a dish, a unique culture of Hanoians.
   Afternoon, continue to visit the Vietnam Military History Museum, housing an interesting collection documenting the period between 1954 and 1975, including aircraft along with French, American, Chinese and Soviet military equipment. The next tour not only tells you moving stories about the struggles of political prisoners but also provides immersive experiences, you’ll visit Hoa Lo prison (better known as the Hanoi Hilton), where was used by the French colonists in French Indochina for political prisoners, and later by North Vietnam for U.S. Prisoners of the Vietnam - American War.
   Tour concludes by exploring the bunker of the General Command Headquarters.
   Overnight at hotel in Hanoi.
   Meals included: Breakfast, Lunch.

3. DAY 3: HANOI – FLY TO DIEN BIEN PHU

   After breakfast, transfer to airport for your flight to Dien Bien Phu.
   Once arrival, the local guide and driver will meet up and transfer to hotel.
   Afternoon, visit the Victory Monument for an orientation of the battlefield and visit the battlefield museum which houses an eclectic collection commemorating the 1954 battle, including photographs, weaponry, the bath-tub of General de Castries and a bicycle that could carry 330kg of ordnance. Our exploration ends at the Viet Minh cemetery from where we watch the sunset.
   Overnight at hotel in Dien Bien Phu.
   Meals included: Breakfast.

4. DAY 4: THE BATTLE OF DIEN BIEN PHU

   Enjoy a full day exploring the well-preserved battle site of Dien Bien Phu, starting at the Muong Phang tunnels and bunker system of the Viet Minh commander General Vo Nguyen Giap.
   This afternoon we visit the amazing and extensive recreated French trench and bunker systems atop the three hills of the Beatrice position and climb Hill A1 (Eliane 2) to witness the last stand of the French and the huge mine crater thereon.
   Overnight at hotel in Dien Bien Phu.
   Meals included: Breakfast.

5. DAY 5: DIEN BIEN PHU – FLY TO HANOI

   Today, we'll see the site of the French surrender at General de Castries bunker, visit the French cemetery, cross the extant French-laid Bailey Bridge and climb up the Anne-Marie defensive position.
   Then, transfer back to hotel for check out and transfer to airport for your return flight to Hanoi.
   Upon arrival, meets your guide and driver at the airport and they will take you back to hotel. Check in and enjoy your leisure time at hotel.
   Overnight at hotel in Hanoi.
   Meals included: Breakfast.

6. DAY 6: HANOI – HALONG BAY – ON BOARD

   After breakfast, check out of hotel and then you'll be picked up and transferred about 3 hours through rustic Vietnamese countryside to Halong Bay, a UNESCO World Heritage sites. With hundreds of giant limestone peaks jutting out of the water at the Bay of Tonkins – it is indeed an impressive sight.
   Board our cruise and after a delicious seafood lunch was served, we take a short trek to a nearby summit to enjoy the panorama view of the bay. As the day wanes, slip into a swim in the cool water before enjoying a sumptuous dinner under the moonlit sky.
   (Note: Program may differ slightly base on cruise ships)
   Overnight on cruise.
   Meals included: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner.

7. DAY 7: HALONG BAY – HANOI – FLIGHT TO HUE

   Rising to the sound of the bay, enjoy an elegant breakfast before visiting a beautiful limestone grotto to admire its many unique rock formations. Then you’ll get back to the boat to form your final lasting impression of Halong Bay’s awe-inspiring beauty while cruising back to the dock, at the same time enjoy your lunch/ brunch.
   Getting back onshore, you will be transferred directly to the airport which takes about 4 hours, then take a short flight to Hue.
   Upon arrival at Phu Bai airport, you are welcomed by the local guide and driver. They will send you to hotel in center. Check in hotel & Free at leisure.
   Overnight at hotel in Hue.
   Meals included: Breakfast.

8. DAY 8: HUE – DMZ TOUR

   An early start for a full day tour of the DMZ. Driving to Quang Tri Province and visit the former Marine base at Khe Sanh, where one of the longest and deadliest battles of the Vietnam War was fought. Travelling on Road 9, originally part of the Ho Chi Minh Trail linking the DMZ to the neighbouring Laos, we will see historic war sites such as The Rockpile and Ta Con Airfield. We cross from ‘South’ Vietnam to the ‘North’ walking over the Hien Luong Bridge.
   Later, visit to the Vinh Moc tunnel complex offers an authentic insight into the life of the Viet Cong, and villagers of Vinh Linh.
   Overnight at hotel in Hue.
   Meals included: Breakfast.

9. DAY 9: THE BATTLE OF HUE – DANANG

   This morning we explore Hue Citadel, focusing on the fighting that took place here during the 1968 Tet Offensive. 11 battalions of the Army of the Republic of South Vietnam (ARVN), 4 US Army battalions and 3 US Marine Corps battalions fought a vicious house to house battle with 10 battalions of the People’s Army of Vietnam and Viet Cong.
   A tour of Hue City including the Old Citadel and the Forbidden Purple City – an amazing historic landmark in Hue – a definitely must-see sight to learn more about the history and architecture that you should not miss when travelling to that peaceful area. Next stop to visit the final resting place – called the King tomb of Tu Duc.
   In the afternoon we drive via Red Beach 2, where the US Marines first landed to China Beach on the outskirts of Danang. Check in hotel and enjoy some R&R.
   Overnight at hotel in Danang.
   Meals included: Breakfast.

10. DAY 10: DANANG - HOIAN & FOODIE TOUR

    After breakfast at hotel, we drive to the Ancient Quarter of Hoi An, a UNESCO World Heritage Site where you will embark on a walking tour visiting the major attractions such as Chua Ong Pagoda, Tan Ky Ancient House, Fujian Assembly Hall, and the Japanese Covered Bridge.
    Continue to visit the Precious Heritage Museum, home to the permanent exhibition of Réhahn’s Precious Heritage Collection. While transporting you to the furthest reaches of Vietnam, the collection will unveil the rich cultural tapestry of the ethnic tribes
    The highlight of the day is the visit to the Reaching Out Tea House, a welcome little oasis of calm in the busy, vibrant Old quarter, owned and operated by the mute and deaf people. Here you will be treated with delicious cakes and incredible tea in the Eastern style.
    Hoi An is a food lover’s paradise, famous for its wonderful cuisine and delicious street food. Now, it’s time for your Hoi An street food discovery tour. With your guide, you will weave in and out the tiny alleyways, get to chow down with the locals at stalls you’d never discover on your own. Every day at 4 pm, Hoi An’s streets filled with a myriad of street food carts, stalls, and vendors. The street food tour will give you an unforgettable and delicious culinary experience as we sample many local specialties. The town is a melting pot of cultures, which has influenced its cuisine. Originating in the 15th century as an important South East Asian commercial port, it became home to many Chinese traders and merchants; hence, the strong influence of Chinese cuisine, which is guided by the forces of Yin and Yang to create a regulating balance of flavors and textures. The French, Japanese and Indians also contributed to the town’s unique cuisine.
    Overnight at hotel in Hoian.
    Meals included: Breakfast, Dinner with streetfood.

11. DAY 11: HOIAN – DANANG – FLY TO HO CHI MINH CITY

    Have a breakfast. Relax and then transfer to Danang airport to catch the short flight to Ho Chi Minh city, still call Saigon by many locals.
    Upon arrival, you are welcomed by the local guide and driver. They will send you to downtown Ho Chi Minh city. Check in hotel & Have a rest.
    Overnight at hotel in Ho Chi Minh.
    Meals included: Breakfast.

12. DAY 12: HO CHI MINH - HISTORICAL CITY TOUR

    Starts with a visit to the War Museum which features a comprehensive collection of the machinery, weapons, photos, and documentation of Vietnam War with the both French and Americans. Next is the Reunification Palace which was the former residence of the President of South Vietnam until and of April 1975. Move to Notre-Dame Basilica, a Neo-Roman cathedral built over 130 years ago by the colonial French with materials entirely imported from Maseilles and stained-glass windows from Charters.
    Afterwards, you’ll visit Saigon Post Office, a fine colonial building which was designed and built in the early 20th century by the famous French architect Gustave Eiffel.
    After lunch, visit Ben Thanh market where is to stock up on souvenirs, T-shirts, bags, coffee and other local products. Discover local life and culture if shopping is not your mission.
    This evening you will be free to visit the night market to discover the authentic local cuisine. Or simply enjoy a glass of cocktail on the rooftop bar of the historic Rex Hotel.
    Overnight at hotel in Ho Chi Minh.
    Meals included: Breakfast.

13. DAY 13: HO CHI MINH – DAY TRIP TO MEKONG DELTA (MY THO & AP BAC)

    This morning, we drive to the little changed battlefield of Ap Bac, a pivotal battle of the Vietnam War and a potent for the eventual failure in South Vietnam. Thence to My Tho, a centre of operations for US and Australian troops, to explore the Mekong Delta by boat to learn more about the US Brown Water Navy.
    After finishing your sightseeing tour your guide will take you to a restaurant for lunch with local specialties then return to the pier and drive back to Ho Chi Minh City.
    Overnight at hotel in Ho Chi Minh.
    Meals included: Breakfast, Lunch.

14. DAY 14: HO CHI MINH – CU CHI TUNNEL & WATER BUS

    Back when war was raging in Vietnam, the only way for the soldiers to survive the carpet-bombings was to live underground. The Cu Chi Tunnels give you a sneak-peek of how the soldiers live amid chaos and unrest. The site has over 120 km of a tunnel system that’s complete with living areas, kitchen, hospitals, and command centers.
    Explore inside the tunnels and imagine the conditions faced by both sides; tunnels were often booby trapped and examples of traps used are on display.
    Cu Chi is definitely worthy of what has been named the “heroic village” of Vietnam.
    Then transfer back to your hotel in Ho  Chi Minh for relaxing. 
    Ho Chi Minh City is surrounded by the poetic Saigon River. Saigon River winds around the city, creating many beautiful peninsulas such as Thu Thiem and Thanh Da. While some places as Bui Vien or Ben Thanh Market are getting more crowded and bored, why don't you try to discover the soul of this land - Saigon River. Maybe you will realize many miracles, a more accurate view of the land once called Paris of Indochina or the Pearl of the Far East.
    Later, you will take the waterbus at Bach Dang Wharf -a beautiful park located in the center of Saigon.
    You can stop at Thanh Da peninsula, this peninsula is a beautiful place and still quite untouched. In this peninsula, there are many old apartment buildings, this is one of a few places still remain the original Saigon.
    Here you can enjoy a glass of "Cafe Sua Da", then return to Ben Bach Dang where the driver is awaiting for transferring to your hotel.
    Overnight at hotel in Ho Chi Minh.
    Meals included: Breakfast.

15. DAY 15: HO CHI MINH CITY - DEPARTURE

    Your guide and driver greets you at the hotel after breakfast and escorts you to Tan Son Nhat International Airport, to catch your departure flight home!
    Meals included: Breakfast.

16. DAY 16:

    Today you leave Saigon and travel to the Mekong River Delta. Enjoy an early breakfast at the hotel before driving to the riverside town, Cai Be. Along the way, stop at a candy factory and orchard garden, where you have an opportunity to listen to traditional music. Enjoy a relaxing lunch at a riverside restaurant, then cross the Mekong by motorized boat to visit some fluvial islands and explore the countryside by bicycle. Your driver and will meet you at Vinh Long jetty and take you to Can Tho City for the night. Meals: Breakfast, Lunch. Accommodation: Hotel in Can Tho.

17. Day 17: Can Tho – Cai Rang Floating Market – Saigon.

    Wake early and leave the hotel to visit the famous Cai Rang floating market by motor boat. Continue the boat ride to visit the Mekong Delta’s famous orchards and sample the fresh, exotic fruit. Then venture deeper into the country side, passing traditional houses made of wood and palm leaves as you observe the activities of the local people. Return to Can Tho for lunch then drive back to Saigon, arriving in the late afternoon. Meals: Breakfast. Accommodation: Hotel in Saigon.

18. Day 18: Saigon Departure.

    Today is free at your leisure for last minute shopping or sight-seeing before driving to the airport to catch your departure flight home. Good bye & safe travels! Meals: Breakfast. Accommodation: N/A.