Southern & Central Vietnam Classic Tour 10 Days: Saigon, Mekong Delta, Hoi An & Imperial Hue Adventure

The Promise: Conquer the city's highlights, transitioning from powerful history to stunning French Colonial architecture.

Your day of historical immersion begins at the Independence Palace. Wander through the preserved rooms of the former Presidential home and witness the historic North Vietnamese tank that ended the war—a potent unflinching insight into the nation's past. Next, your guide leads you on a charming walking tour of the French Quarter. Marvel at the majestic Saigon Notre Dame Cathedral and the iconic Saigon Central Post Office, a stunning Gustave Eiffel design that remains a working testament to colonial elegance.

The afternoon takes you to the War Remnants Museum, offering a sobering but essential perspective on the Vietnam War. We conclude the day with a sensory explosion at Ben Thanh Market. Open since 1870, this is the lifeblood of Saigon. Dive into the bustling atmosphere, practice your bargaining skills, and sample incredible local delicacies—the ultimate fusion of history and hustle.

• Included: English Speaking Guide, Meal (B), Private Transportation, Entrance Fees.

• Accommodation: Elios Hotel (Senior Superior Room) or similar.

The Promise: Descend into history at the tunnels and witness the awe-inspiring architecture of a unique, multi-faith religion.

We begin the day with a journey to the legendary Cu Chi Tunnels. This 250km network of hand-dug tunnels is a powerful symbol of human resilience and ingenuity. You'll explore the hidden chambers, learn about the tenacious wartime life, and for those feeling adventurous, you can crawl through a short section of the tunnels—a physical moment of conquest that brings history to life.

The journey continues to Tay Ninh to visit the Cao Dai Temple (Holy See). Caodaism is a uniquely Vietnamese religion blending elements of Buddhism, Taoism, Confucianism, and Catholicism. If timed correctly, you will witness the mesmerizing midday mass where followers in stunning, multi-colored robes gather in a cathedral of vibrant, ornate, and wholly unexpected architecture. It is a moment of profound cultural discovery. After a local lunch, we transfer back to Saigon.

• Included: English Speaking Guide, Meal (B, L), Private Transportation, Entrance Fees.

• Optional: Cu Chi shooting range (pay on the spot).

• Accommodation: Elios Hotel (Senior Superior Room) or similar.

The Promise: Leave the city behind and embrace the peaceful harmony of life on the mighty Mekong River.

Today, your journey takes a gentle turn as we head to the Mekong Delta. Our destination is Cai Be. Upon arrival, you'll board a river boat to truly experience the rhythm of the Mekong. Glide past lush orchards and stop at craft workshops to see how local specialties like rice popcorn and coconut caramel are made.

The highlight is your chance for closeness to nature: bike or walk along village paths, shaded by fruit trees, discovering the serene Phu Chau Pagoda. Enjoy a local lunch featuring the famed Elephant Ear Fish. You will then row a small sampan through narrow, shady canals, a truly intimate moment of tranquility. Later, we transfer to Can Tho to check into your riverside hotel. The evening is yours to explore the riverside promenade.

• Included: English Speaking Guide, Meal (B, L), Boat Trip, Bike Rental, Private Transportation.

• Accommodation: Ninh Kieu Riverside Hotel (Executive Superior City view) or similar.

The Promise: Rise early to witness the bustling, colorful commerce of the floating markets before transitioning to the romantic escape of Hoi An.

Rise before the sun to visit the Cai Rang Floating Market, the largest and most vibrant market in the Mekong Delta. This is an incredible spectacle of commerce and color, where hundreds of boats gather to trade goods. You’ll weave your way through the chaos of sampans overflowing with rice, tropical fruits, and vegetables—an authentic, unforgettable encounter.

We continue our boat journey through the canals to visit a local fruit garden and the historic Binh Thuy Ancient House, famous as a filming location for The Lover. After a final Delta lunch, we transfer back to Ho Chi Minh City for your domestic flight to Da Nang. Upon arrival, you are seamlessly transferred to Hoi An, checking into your charming hotel in this lantern-lit ancient town.

• Included: English Speaking Guide, Meal (B, L), Boat Trip, Private Transportation, Domestic Flight (SGN-DAD).

• Accommodation: Delicacy Hotel & Spa (Deluxe City View Room) or similar.

The Promise: Immerse yourself in the romantic escape of a UNESCO port town and feel the genuine warmth of rural Vietnamese life.

Your day begins with a guided walking tour of Hoi An's Old Town. This former trading port is perfectly preserved, offering a stunning blend of cultures. Cross the iconic 400-year-old Japanese Covered Bridge, explore the history at the Quan Thang Ancient House, and visit the magnificent Fujian Assembly Hall. Every corner of this town radiates historical elegance.

In the afternoon, we head to the Tra Que Farming Village, famous for its aromatic herbs. Here, you'll enjoy a fascinating introduction to traditional Vietnamese medicine and the unique cultivation methods. This is a wonderful opportunity to interact directly with the farmers, take great photos, and feel the genuine warmth of this local community. You’ll leave feeling deeply connected to the land before returning to Hoi An, where the soft glow of the evening lanterns awaits you.

• Included: English Speaking Guide, Meal (B), Private Transportation, Entrance Fees.

• Accommodation: Delicacy Hotel & Spa (Deluxe City View Room) or similar.

The Promise: Step back in time to the mystery and grandeur of a forgotten Hindu civilization.

We take a half-day excursion to My Son Sanctuary, the ancient religious capital of the Champa Kingdom. Recognized as a World Culture Heritage site by UNESCO, My Son preserves the remains of over 70 brick and stone temple structures built between the 7th and 13th centuries.

Your guide will bring the history to life, explaining the intricate architecture and profound religious significance of these crumbling ruins. Walking through the jungle-fringed site, you’ll feel a sense of historical reverence and powerful discovery. Your visit is enriched by attending a captivating traditional Champa dancing show, fully immersing you in the culture of this ancient civilization before returning to Hoi An for a free afternoon.

• Included: English Speaking Guide, Meal (B, L), Private Transportation, Entrance Fees.

• Accommodation: Delicacy Hotel & Spa (Deluxe City View Room) or similar.

The Promise: Traverse the majestic Hai Van Pass and step into the grandeur of Vietnam’s Imperial past in Hue.

Our scenic drive to Hue is an adventure in itself! We travel along the coast through Da Nang, pausing to visit the Cham Museum, home to the world's most important collection of Cham culture. We then ascend to the summit of the Hai Van Pass (Ocean Cloud Pass) where you will be rewarded with breathtaking, panoramic views of the ocean and mountains—a true coastal conquest.

Upon arrival in Hue, we visit the iconic Thien Mu Pagoda, Hue's spiritual heart, known for its majestic Octagon Tower and tranquil setting on the Perfume River. The afternoon is dedicated to the Hue Citadel, the fortified symbol of Imperial Vietnam. Explore the Forbidden Purple City, the royal palaces, and the Dynasty Temple area, immersing yourself in the grandeur of the Nguyen Dynasty.

• Included: English Speaking Guide, Meal (B, L), Private Transportation, Entrance Fees.

• Accommodation: Rosaleen Boutique Hotel (Deluxe Double Room) or similar.

The Promise: Discover architectural masterpieces and connect with the peaceful atmosphere of local village life.

Your day begins with a visit to the Tomb of Emperor Minh Mang, a stunning architectural masterpiece that harmoniously blends nature and imperial design. The scale and symmetry of this royal resting place are truly magnificent.

Next, you will take a relaxing boat trip along the Huong River (Perfume River) to Thuy Bieu Village. Here, the pace slows completely. Bike through the village under the shade of famed grapefruit trees, savoring the fragrant aroma and the peaceful atmosphere. You’ll visit a traditional garden house and interact with local villagers working in the fields—a beautiful moment of closeness to nature and community connection. Conclude the morning with a Hue specialty cooking class before enjoying the fruits of your labor for lunch.

• Included: English Speaking Guide, Meal (B, L), Boat Trip, Private Transportation, Entrance Fees, Bike Rental, Cooking Class.

• Accommodation: Rosaleen Boutique Hotel (Deluxe Double Room) or similar.

The Promise: Depart with a lifetime of vivid memories from Vietnam's dynamic South and majestic Center.

Enjoy your final delicious breakfast in the Imperial Capital. Your private driver will meet you at your hotel and ensure a comfortable, stress-free transfer to Phu Bai Airport for your onward flight. You leave Vietnam having experienced the full spectrum of its culture, from the vibrant streets of Saigon to the grandeur of the Imperial Citadel.

• Included: Meal (B), Private Transportation.