Guide

Experienced English speaking guide

Transport

Private Car Plane Boat Cyclo

Accommodation

- Hanoi: Hanoi Romance hotel or similar ones - Halong bay: V’spirit Cruise or similar ones - Hue: Rosaline Hotel or similar ones - Hoi An: Hoian Green Boutique Resort & Spa or similar ones - Nha Trang: BEGONIA hotel or similar ones - Saigon: Ruby River Hotel or similar ones - Can Tho: Ninh Kieu hotel or similar ones

Others

Transportation in private air-conditioned vehicle with driver Accommodation in hotels (twin shared room) Meals as indicated: B = breakfast, L = lunch English speaking guide Entrance fee to indicated sights Water puppet show Boat trips Pure bottled water & wipes Cyclo trip in Hanoi Government’s taxes

Meals

12 Breakfasts 2 Lunches 1 Dinner

Not included:

Others

Other meals, tip, drinks, airport tax, single room, personal expenses, insurance,… - Domestic flight Hanoi - Hue (Contact us for the updated airfare if you want) - Domestic flight Da Nang - Nha Trang (Contact us for the updated airfare if you want) - Domestic Flight Nha Trang - Saigon (Contact us for the updated airfare if you want) - Hotel’s upgrade

Flights

- Domestic flight Hanoi - Hue - Domestic flight Da Nang - Nha Trang - Domestic Flight Nha Trang - Saigon

Start planning your experience

Day 1 Day 1: Arrival – Hanoi Sightseeing Tour
12:00 am - 11:59 pm

Day 1: Arrival – Hanoi Sightseeing Tour

Arrive in Hanoi, the capital of Vietnam. The city was founded in 1010 on the right bank of the Red River and was then known as ‘Thang Long’, roughly translated as “Soaring Dragon.” Hanoi is one of the most charming cities in South East Asia with its authentic street scenes, large shady avenues, numerous lakes, manicured gardens and well-preserved architecture.

Transfer from Noi Bai airport to the hotel for check in and short break. If time permits, join us on a city sightseeing highlights. The tour includes a visit to the complex of memorials to Ho Chi Minh (visit outside), the Single Pillar Pagoda, the Temple of Literature and a rickshaw ride through the lively Old Quarter.

Overnight in Hanoi.
Day 2 Day 2: Hanoi – Halong Bay
12:00 am - 11:59 pm

Day 2: Hanoi – Halong Bay

After having breakfast at hotel, you’ll be picked up by our shuttle bus to get to Halong bay

12h00: Arrive Halong Bay.

12h30: Boarding Royal Heritage Cruise for departure. Welcome drink will be served

13h00: Lunch is served while cruising through the Bai Tu Long Bay.

15h15: Visit splendid Surprising Cave (Sung Sot Cave). This is one of the most beautiful grottoes in Halong

Bay. You will feel surprised about imposing stalagmites, stalactites and many legend stories about that.

16h15: Time for kayaking around Luon Cave area. You will have got around 45 minutes to explore Halong bay and some tunnel by yourself.

17h00: Back to Royal Heritage Cruise and drop anchor in the calm water surrounded by beautiful islets for swimming.

17h30: Enjoy the complimentary sunset party on the sundeck with green tea and fresh fruits.

19h00: Dinner is served in the restaurant.

21h00: Take some leisure time to enjoy chatting at the bar or enjoy some night fishing.

Relax and spend a romantic night on our Cruise
Day 3 Day 3: Halong Bay – Hanoi – Flight To Hue
12:00 am - 11:59 pm

Day 3: Halong Bay – Hanoi – Flight To Hue

06h30: Rise up early with Tai Chi exercises or a photo hunt

07h30: Have breakfast at sunrise

08h30: Continue your cruise to Titov Island

09h15: Continue cruising and exploring the Bay by a visit to Hoa Cuong fishing Village, Ba Hang fishing village, Ga Choi Island, Dinh Huong islet and more….

10h00: Join Vietnamese Cooking Demonstration

10h30: Enjoying a traditional Vietnamese lunch while cruising back through Halong Bay to the pier.

11h30: Disembarkation. Time to say goodbye to the crew.

12h00: Transfer back to Hanoi by our shuttle bus

At around 16:00, right after approaching Hanoi’s center, our tour guide & driver on another private car will pick you up then transfer to Noi Bai airport for your flight to Hue. On arrival in Hue, transfer to your hotel and check in

Overnight in Hue
Day 4 Day 4: Hue Sightseeing Tour
12:00 am - 11:59 pm

Day 4: Hue Sightseeing Tour

The day is spent discovering Hue, capital of Vietnam from 1802 to 1945 during the reign of the Nguyen dynasty. Begin with a cruise along the peaceful Perfume River, taking in the endless surrounding greenery heading to Thien Mu pagoda, the symbol of Hue city. After embarkation, you’ll climb a number of steps to reach it, but the effort is worth it.

The Thien Mu Pagoda has its roots in a local legend: an old woman once appeared on the hill and said that a Lord would come and build a Buddhist pagoda for the country’s prosperity. Hearing of this, Lord Nguyen Hoang ordered the construction of the pagoda of the “Heavenly Lady” (Thien Mu). The octagonal Phuoc Dien Tower (1864) in the front of the complex rises 21 meters high and has seven levels.

The seven successive tiers, each of which is dedicated to a human form taken by the Buddha or a step to enlightenment depending on whom you ask. Near the entrance gate are 12 huge wooden sculptures of fearsome temple guardians with real facial hair. Near the rear of the complex houses a national relic: the car in which the monk Thich Quang Duc rode from his temple to Saigon on June 11, 1963. He stepped out of the car in an intersection, sat down in the lotus position, and burned himself to death in protest against the regime’s violations of religious freedom.

Continue your tour with a visit to the Citadel, seat of the Nguyen Dynasty emperors. Construction began in 1804 under the orders of the first Emperor Gia Long after the site had been selected using principles of geomancy. The site is composed of three sections; the capital city (Thanh Kinh), the imperial city (Hoang Thanh) and the Forbidden City (Cam Thanh). It was largely destroyed in 1968 during the fighting that engulfed Hue following the Tet Offensive. Today, efforts are being made to restore and preserve this invaluable piece of heritage

In the afternoon, transfer to the tomb of Emperor Khai Dinh to admire the unusual combination of architecture that blends a traditional Chinese past with a modern Western future. Follow it with a visit to Thuy Xuan incense village, one of the last villages preserving the traditional profession, the elegant beauty of the old Capital. Overnight at the hotel in Hue.
Day 5 Day 5: Hue – Hoi An Sightseeing Tour
12:00 am - 11:59 pm

Day 5: Hue – Hoi An Sightseeing Tour

Depart Hue for Hoi An along Highway 1 which links Hanoi to Ho Chi Minh city. This drive is reputedly the most beautiful in all Vietnam, taking you past coastal fishing settlements, most notably Lang Co with its stunning lagoon backdrop. The drive also takes you over Hai Van Pass, or ‘pass of the ocean clouds’. En route stop in Da Nang for a visit to the informative Cham Museum, which houses one of the largest collections of Cham artifacts in the world (optional).

En route, stopping in a village of stone carvers at the foot of the Marble Mountain. Continue on to the delightful town of Hoi An which stands on the banks of the Thu Bon river, some thirty kilometers southeast of Da Nang. Around the fifteenth century, this old port town in the kingdom of Champa was known as Faifo. Check-in to hotel on arrival. Enjoy lunch at a local restaurant.

The afternoon is spent strolling through the narrow streets of this atmospheric old town. This former port, a UNESCO World Heritage site, is full of architectural gems that show a range of influences. Visit the Japanese bridge, the temple of the genie of water, the Fujian temple and the fish market. Around the seventeenth century Hoi An was one of the busiest ports in South East Asia, with Chinese, Portuguese, Japanese, Dutch, French and English merchants visiting the town in search of spices, lacquer ware, and ceramics.

Enriched by the proceeds of this trade many merchants constructed beautiful homes. One can admire these charming houses along Tran Phu Street, one of the oldest in Hoi An. Architecture in the old town tends to show an integration of Sino-Japanese influences in a local style. Most buildings share the same overall plan; built on two levels, they are constructed like a tube between two streets that run parallel. In the late afternoon take a boat ride on the Thu Bon River for the chance to view some beautiful rural scenery, finishing at around sunset.

Overnight at the hotel in Hoi An.
Day 6 Day 6: Hoi An – Tra Que – My Son Sightseeing Tour
12:00 am - 11:59 pm

Day 6: Hoi An – Tra Que – My Son Sightseeing Tour

Depart early for the village Tra Que, where you can learn more about rural life in the region. Meet the locals and participate in some of their daily activities, whilst learning more about their lifestyle. Finish off your experience with a delicious lunch featuring some of the produce grown locally.

In the afternoon, continue your exploration of the area with a trip to My Son. Located approximately 60 km south of Da Nang this site is considered the most important Cham site in Vietnam and is classified by UNESCO as world heritage. The collection of temples, shrines and towers were constructed in a stunning valley and is ringed by verdant rainforest.
Day 7 Day 7: Hoi An – Danang – Flight To Nha Trang
12:00 am - 11:59 pm

Day 7: Hoi An – Danang – Flight To Nha Trang

Transfer to the airport for your flight from Da Nang to Nha Trang. On arrival, transfer to your hotel and check in.

The afternoon is devoted to a city tour of Nha Trang. Visit the famous Cham towers of Po Nagar, a stunning Cham complex and the peaceful Hon Chong promontory. Conclude the tour with a trip to the Long Son Pagoda and its enormous white Buddha. Located on the outskirts of town, it is the oldest pagoda Nha Trang.

The rest of time, you’ll be free to linger on the beach or explore this picturesque seaside resort. Whilst also being a fishing port, Nha Trang has one of the best beaches in Vietnam. Lined with coconut palms, the beach is a perfect place to relax and enjoy the many sunshine hours that Nha Trang enjoys. With regards to dining, seafood fans should not miss out on some of the delicious local fare.

Overnight in Nha Trang
Day 8 Day 8: Nha Trang Beach Leisure (Seat-In-Coach Tour)
12:00 am - 11:59 pm

Day 8: Nha Trang Beach Leisure (Seat-In-Coach Tour)

In the morning travel to Nha Trang quay where you will board your boat for an unforgettable trip around the man islands that ring the city. After a short cruise, disembark for a beautiful walk to the Tri Nguyen aquarium, on nearby Tri Nguyen Island. Here you can admire many species of fish, shrimp, crabs and giant turtles. The island is also home to a small fishing community named Hon Tam. Here you will have the opportunity to enjoy the laid back atmosphere as you sample some delicious seafood dishes.

Overnight in Nha Trang
Day 9 Day 9: Nha Trang – Ho Chi Minh City – Sightseeing Tour
12:00 am - 11:59 pm

Day 9: Nha Trang – Ho Chi Minh City – Sightseeing Tour

Breakfast. Free until transfer to the airport for flight to Ho Chi Minh City. Arrival in Ho Chi Minh City and picked up by the local guide.

Begin your exploration of this frenetic city with lunch at a local restaurant. Not only is Ho Chi Minh city the most important economic Centre in Vietnam, it also has some very imposing colonial architecture which belies in fascinating past. Almost a hundred years of French rule bestowed upon the city some pearls of colonial architecture. Visit the central post office, designed by Gustave Eiffel, and the Notre Dame Cathedral, inspired by its counterpart in Paris.

Continue your city tour with a visit to District 5, formerly known as Cho Lon or China Town. Cho Lon, or ‘big market’, with its congested streets is where most of the city’s ethnic Chinese population lives. The district lives up to its name in the form of Binh Tay wholesale market. Founded in 1778 the market sells a stunning array of goods and produce, ranging from fish to incense. Finish your city tour with a stop at Thien Hau temple, otherwise known as ‘Temple of the Heavenly Lady’, to marvel at its intricate friezes and coils of incense.

Overnight in Ho Chi Minh City
Day 10 Day 10: Ho Chi Minh City – Tay Ninh – Cu Chi
12:00 am - 11:59 pm

Day 10: Ho Chi Minh City – Tay Ninh – Cu Chi

Excursion to Tay Ninh to visit the spectacular Cao Dai temple, the Cathedral of the religion of the same name. This sect, originating in Vietnam, draws freely from other philosophies of Christianity and Confucianism. The architecture of the cathedral is stunning, neither Eastern nor Western. You can attend the main ceremony at Noon (Remove your shoes before entering). Lunch at a local restaurant.

Continue to visit Cu Chi, where the Viet Cong confused the Americans through a miracle of primitive technology. The guerrillas escaped from their enemies through a maze of resistant bomb tunnels that span nearly 200 km. Most of these tunnels are too narrow for Western visitors, who usually, rapidly become claustrophobic. But a small portion of the labyrinth has been enlarged to give tourists a glimpse of the city underground Cu Chi. Back in Ho Chi Minh City at the end of the afternoon.

Overnight at the hotel in Ho Chi Minh City
Day 11 Day 11: Ho Chi Minh City – Cai Be – Vinh Long – Can Tho
12:00 am - 11:59 pm

Day 11: Ho Chi Minh City – Cai Be – Vinh Long – Can Tho

Start early by road to Cai Be located 105 km south of Ho Chi Minh City. Now boarding a boat on the Mekong through the floating markets of Cai Be, where you can admire displays of fruits and vegetables. Explore islands, visiting factories where they prepared delicious sweets based small coconut, popcorns, rice cakes and so on. Lunch in a garden of bonsai or in an old house. You will enjoy the famous fish “elephant ear”.

Continuation of visit by a small sampan ride through the shady canals to Vinh Long. You will cross over the parkway many small boats carrying fruits, vegetables and fish. Parkway in orchards, tasting tropical fruits. In late afternoon, transfer by road to Can Tho, an important rice in the Mekong Delta, known as the Capital of the West, located at the edge of Hau Giang, arm the southern Mekong. Dinner. At night, it is good to stroll on the docks Ninh Kieu, bordering the river

Overnight in Can Tho
Day 12 Day 12: Can Tho – Ho Chi Minh City
12:00 am - 11:59 pm

Day 12: Can Tho – Ho Chi Minh City

Parkway morning boat to the floating markets of Cai Rang, then continuation to the discovery of small channels through the islands covered with lush flora. Cycle the parkways and paths through orchards (optional), tasting tropical fruits. Lunch. Landing. Return to Ho Chi Minh city. Overnight in Ho Chi Minh city
Day 13 Day 13: Ho Chi Minh City – Departure
12:00 am - 11:59 pm

Day 13: Ho Chi Minh City – Departure

Free day until departure. Enjoy a last stroll to admire the colonial architecture, visit the colourful markets or take a trip through the frenetic streets in a cyclo. Free until departure from hotel. Transfer to the airport for departure flight. Breakfast included.

+10

13 days tour

Lifetime Vietnam Family Holiday From Hanoi To Saigon Via Hue

This tour includes:

Not included:

Start planning your experience

Itinerary of your trip Lifetime Vietnam Family Holiday From Hanoi To Saigon Via Hue

Day 1: Arrival – Hanoi Sightseeing Tour

Day 2: Hanoi – Halong Bay

Day 3: Halong Bay – Hanoi – Flight To Hue

Day 4: Hue Sightseeing Tour

Day 5: Hue – Hoi An Sightseeing Tour

Day 6: Hoi An – Tra Que – My Son Sightseeing Tour

Day 7: Hoi An – Danang – Flight To Nha Trang

Day 8: Nha Trang Beach Leisure (Seat-In-Coach Tour)

Day 9: Nha Trang – Ho Chi Minh City – Sightseeing Tour

Day 10: Ho Chi Minh City – Tay Ninh – Cu Chi

Day 11: Ho Chi Minh City – Cai Be – Vinh Long – Can Tho

Day 12: Can Tho – Ho Chi Minh City

Day 13: Ho Chi Minh City – Departure

Experience Style

Accomodation level

Experience Type

Physical Rating

Age range

Who talk about us:

Best cities to travel to

America

Europe

Asia

Africa

Oceania