Designed to capture the real essence of Vietnam, this fascinating nine-day journey takes you from the deep reaches of the Mekong Delta to the timeless capital of Hanoi. Unique guided excursions provide insight into the country’s architecture and traditional cultures and introduces you to the friendly local people and spectacular landscapes. Whether its enjoying a bowl of noodles with the locals in Hanoi or venturing through ancient masoleums in Hue, this Essential Vietnam tour is full of unforgettable experiences.

Itinerary

Day 1 - Ho Chi Minh City Arrival

Welcome to Ho Chi Minh City (HCMC), also known as Saigon to the locals. With the entire day at leisure, take some time to recover from jet lag or explore the city on your own.

Overnight in Ho Chi Minh City.

Day 2 - Ho Chi Minh City (B)

Today, a full day tour introduces you to the diverse attractions of HCMC. Venture into the Chinese quarter at Cholon, learn about traditional Vietnamese medicine at FITO Museum and browse the amazing array of goods at Ben Thanh Market. This afternoon, visit either the War Remnants or History Museum, and the former Presidential Palace for a glimpse into Vietnamese history before ending with an exploration of the city's French-influenced colonial architecture.

Overnight in Ho Chi Minh City.

Day 3 - Ho Chi Minh City - Mekong Delta - Ho Chi Minh City (B)

This morning, enjoy a 2.5 hour drive past rural villages and rice paddies to Cai Be in the Mekong Delta. Embark on a cruise to visit the bustling Cai Be floating market, observe the production of rice paper and coconut candies at cottage industries and sample local Mekong specialties for lunch. When the cruise ends, return by road to the city.

Overnight in Ho Chi Minh City.

Day 4 - Ho Chi Minh City - Danang - Hoi An (B)

An early morning flight leads you to the central port city of Danang, and onward to Hoi An. At Hoi An, take a walking tour of this ancient Southeast Asian trading town to see the Chinese-style shophouses, Japanese Covered Bridge and other historic architecture. Late this afternoon, enjoy a sunset boat trip.

Overnight in Hoi An.

Day 5 - Hoi An - Hue (B)

Driving to Hue via Danang, the overland journey includes a stop at the Cham Museum before passing through the panoramic Hai Van Pass and the picturesque fishing village of Lang Co. In Hue, explore the Imperial Citadel, the Mausoleum of Tu Duc, before capping the day at Khai Dinh's Tomb, a unique tomb that marries traditional Vietnamese and European styles.

Overnight in Hue.

Day 6 - Hue – Hanoi (B)

Start your day with a cruise on the iconic Perfume River to visit Thien Mu Pagoda, which contains beautiful Buddha images, and the Tomb of Minh Mang, an opulent complex of gardens and ponds. Depart Hue this afternoon for a short flight to Hanoi, and enjoy the rest of the day at your leisure.

Overnight in Hanoi.

Day 7 - Hanoi (B)

Today features a full day of sightseeing in Hanoi, with visits to landmark attractions such as Ho Chi Minh Mausoleum and his former stilted residence, One Pillar Pagoda, Temple of Literature and the ancient Buddhist pagodas surrounding West Lake. Then, explore the narrow, atmospheric streets of the Old Quarter. This afternoon, you can choose to visit either the Ethnology, Army or National Fine Arts Museum to get an overview of Vietnamese culture or history. Depending on availability, end the day with a water puppet show to discover traditional Vietnamese art forms.

Overnight in Hanoi.

Day 8 - Hanoi - Halong Bay (B,L,D)

This morning, drive through the fertile farmlands of the Red River Delta to Halong City. Board the Emeraude, a classic replica of a colonial steamship, for the overnight cruise on Halong Bay. Enjoy the magnificent scenery as the boat sails around the emerald waters and craggy limestone cliffs.

Overnight on Halong Bay

Day 9 - Halong - Hanoi Departure (B)

Enjoy the beauty of Halong Bay in the morning hours as your boat sails back to Halong City. After disembarkation, drive back to Hanoi with an optional to stop at But Thap, one of the oldest pagodas in Vietnam. Spend the remaining time at your leisure until your transfer to the airport for your onward flight.

Our Services Include:

• Hotel accommodation in half-twin/double room with daily breakfast.
• Meals as mentioned in the itinerary (B = Breakfast, L = Lunch, D = Dinner).
• Tours and transfers by private air-conditioned vehicles.
• English/French speaking local guide (for other languages supplements apply)
• All entrance fees as indicated in itinerary.
• Boat trips as mentioned in the itinerary.

Our Services do not Include:

• Vietnam visa arrangements (a visa to Vietnam is compulsory for most nationalities).
• International and domestic flights: Ho Chi Minh City - Danang // Hue - Hanoi (quoted separately).
• Meals other than mentioned above.
• Camera/video entrance fees.
• Personal expenses (drinks, laundry, telephone, tips etc).
• Travel insurance (recommended).
• Other services not clearly indicated in the package inclusions above.