This tour will take you on a journey through the stunning panoramas of Vietnam. It starts in the colonial capital of Hanoi, an elegant yet fast-paced city. Next, you'll cruise the emerald waters among the peaks of Vietnam's most famous bay - Halong Bay. Then, savor the spectacular views of Hoa Lu - Tam Coc in Ninh Binh province, often called the "Inland Halong Bay". Explore the vibrant southern city of Ho Chi Minh, and experience the riverside life of local people alongside the mighty Mekong River. This 7-day discovery showcases the natural beauty, rich history, and diverse culture that make Vietnam such a captivating destination. Get ready to be immersed in the stunning landscapes and warm hospitality of this remarkable country.
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Your Vietnam journey begins with your arrival in Hanoi. Your private driver will meet you at the airport, holding a signboard with your name. He will escort you to your accommodation right in the heart of the city, with the fascinating Old Quarter at your fingertips. You can easily explore the city at your own pace or relax at the hotel after the flight. Overnight in Hanoi.
8:00 - 8:30 AM: Our tour guide and bus will pick you up from your hotel to begin discovering Hanoi. 8:45 AM: Visit the Ho Chi Minh Complex, the final resting place of Vietnam's great leader, Uncle Ho. You'll have a chance to see his embalmed body, then walk around the garden to see the two houses where he lived and worked from 1954 to 1969. Next, visit the One Pillar Pagoda, which worships the Goddess of Mercy - it's one of the most unique pagodas in the world. 10:15 AM: Visit the Vietnam Ethnology Museum to learn about the culture of Vietnam's ethnic groups. 12:30 - 12:45 PM: Enjoy lunch at a local restaurant, with vegetarian options available. 1:30 PM: Visit Tran Quoc Pagoda, located on West Lake. It's the oldest pagoda in Hanoi, built in the 6th century. 2:30 PM: Continue to the Temple of Literature, Vietnam's first university, founded in 1070. 3:30 PM: Visit Hoa Lo Prison, also known as the "Hanoi Hilton", a former French prison that is now a war museum. 4:30 PM: Return to your hotel. Overnight in Hanoi. Note: Please dress modestly by covering your shoulders and knees when visiting temples, pagodas, etc. Ho Chi Minh's Mausoleum is closed on Mondays and Fridays, but you can still take pictures of the exterior. It's also closed for maintenance from June 15 to August 15. Special Note: If the Ethnology Museum is closed on Mondays, we'll visit the Vietnamese Women's Museum instead.
Your guide will pick you up from your hotel around 7:30-8:00 AM and take you to Ninh Binh province. First, visit the ancient capital of Hoa Lu, where you'll explore the outstanding architecture of the King Dinh and King Le temples, the first emperors of ancient Vietnam. Then, head to Tam Coc, where you'll have lunch and board a rowing boat to cruise along the river through limestone caves. After the boat trip, take a cycling tour through the idyllic village and rice fields to explore the surrounding scenery. Finally, return to Hanoi by shuttle bus. Overnight in Hanoi.
Check out of your Hanoi hotel and get picked up by the cruise team. Enjoy the scenic drive across the Red River Delta, with emerald green rice paddies as far as the eye can see. Upon arrival at the pier, board the cruise and enjoy the fantastic views of limestone rocks and karst grottoes. Have a delicious seafood lunch and spend time on the sundeck exploring the bay. The cruise will stop at a secret spot where you can kayak or swim to explore the karst grottoes up close. In the evening, return to the boat for an early dinner, followed by leisure time on board. Overnight on the cruise. Note: In case of bad weather, the Halong Bay tour may be cancelled without notice. We will consider alternative arrangements or a refund based on the circumstances.
Rise early to view the sunrise over the natural wonder, with breakfast served in the dining room. Then head off to visit a limestone cave full of stalagmites and stalactites. After your exploration, return to the boat to check out and enjoy brunch while the cruise sails back to the harbor. Later, you'll be transferred to Hanoi airport for your flight to Ho Chi Minh City. Upon arrival, you'll be transferred to your accommodation in the city center. Overnight in Ho Chi Minh.
After breakfast, your guide will meet you at the hotel lobby around 7:15-7:30 AM and you'll head to My Tho, on the left side of the Mekong River. Board a sampan and cruise down the river around the four beautiful islands - Dragon, Unicorn, Phoenix, and Tortoise. Stop at Unicorn Island, walk around the country lanes, and see the orchards. Visit fruit plantations and enjoy tropical fruits and folk song music. Then take a hand-rowed sampan through Thoi Son canal and immerse yourself in the beauty of the countryside. Visit family workshops and a honey-bee farm, and taste some honey tea and coconut candies. Enjoy a traditional Vietnamese lunch, then cycle around Tan Thach village to experience local daily life. If you prefer, relax in a hammock instead. Afterwards, return to your accommodation. Overnight in Ho Chi Minh.
Enjoy a healthy breakfast on your final day. Complete the hotel check-out formalities, then you can visit local markets to buy souvenirs. Later, your private driver will transfer you to the airport for your flight home. Trip Ends.
Our Important Notes and Packing List cover all essentials, from necessary equipment to inclusions, ensuring you're fully equipped and informed for this extraordinary adventure and more.
Yes, there are ATMs at bank offices, big hotels, and shopping malls. You could use Visa and Master Card without any problems, not all ATMs and shops will accept Union Pay, but you always find a place to use it too. In small shops and cafes be ready to pay with cash. Also, keep some cash if you are traveling to remote areas and small islands.
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