Vietnam Classic Holiday: North to South Adventure 10 Days

Today, we dive into Hanoi’s rich history and cultural landmarks. Our first stop is the Temple of Literature, Vietnam's first national university, built in the 11th century. Walk through its beautiful gardens, admire the "stone steles" honoring the country’s most brilliant scholars, and explore Quoc Tu Giam, considered the nation’s first university.

Next, we visit the Vietnam Museum of Ethnology (closed on Mondays), which offers deep insights into Vietnam's diverse cultures through traditional costumes, tools, and houses of its many ethnic groups. Take your time to explore the fascinating exhibits.

In the afternoon, we explore the elegant French Quarter, with its wide, tree-lined boulevards and grand colonial buildings. We'll see the exterior of the Ho Chi Minh Mausoleum, take a leisurely stroll through the botanical gardens, and visit the Presidential Palace and Ho Chi Minh’s Stilt House. We'll also see the iconic One-Pillar Pagoda, a symbol of Hanoi.

The day concludes with a mesmerizing Water Puppet Show, a traditional Vietnamese performance that dates back to the 11th century. The puppets, dancing on water, tell stories of Vietnamese daily life and folklore, accompanied by live traditional music.

• Included: English-speaking guide, breakfast, transportation, all entrance fees, Water Puppet Show, 2 bottles of mineral water, accommodation at Conifer Grand Hotel (or similar).

Today, we escape the city for a full-day excursion to Ninh Binh, a breathtaking site rich with history and natural wonders. Our journey passes through the picturesque countryside of the Red River Delta.

Our first stop is Hoa Lu, Vietnam's ancient capital in the 10th and 11th centuries. We’ll visit the temples dedicated to Emperor Dinh Tien Hoang and Emperor Le Dai Hanh, who played a vital role in Vietnam's independence. These 17th-century temples symbolize the deep respect for the kings' contributions.

Next, we visit the beautiful Bich Dong Pagoda, a series of pagodas nestled into a limestone mountain. Cross a stunning stone bridge and climb over 100 steps to reach the cave pagoda, where you can admire unique clay statues and enjoy incredible countryside views.

After a delicious lunch, we head to Tam Coc, famously known as "Ha Long Bay on land." Here, you'll take a private 90-minute sampan boat cruise along the Ngo Dong River. Pass through three mysterious caves and be mesmerized by a stunning landscape of small communities, lush rice fields, and towering limestone karsts.

• Included: English-speaking guide, breakfast, lunch, boat trip, transportation, all entrance fees, 2 bottles of mineral water, accommodation at Conifer Grand Hotel (or similar).

Get ready for one of the most breathtaking experiences of your trip! After an early breakfast, our driver will pick you up for a scenic 3-hour drive to Tuan Chau Marina. The route takes you through the beautiful landscapes of the Red River Delta.

Upon arrival, you'll board the cruise ship, enjoy a welcome drink, and receive a short briefing. Settle into your room before a delicious Vietnamese and international lunch as you begin your sailing journey through the breathtaking Ha Long Bay, a UNESCO World Heritage site.

In the afternoon, you'll have the chance to explore a Pearl Farm and enjoy a relaxing kayaking session. Later, you’ll discover the grandeur of Sung Sot Cave, the largest and most impressive cave in the bay, filled with stunning stalactites. As evening approaches, return to the boat for a captivating Happy Hour and a sumptuous deluxe dinner. The night concludes with activities like squid fishing or simply relaxing under the stars.

• Included: Shuttle bus from Hanoi to Ha Long, English-speaking guide on board, breakfast, lunch, dinner, entrance fees, kayaking, squid fishing, cooking class, 2 bottles of mineral water, overnight on Mila Cruise (or similar).

Start your day with a peaceful Tai Chi session on the sundeck as the sun rises over the bay. After breakfast, you'll visit Titov Island, where you can swim in the calm waters or hike to the top for a spectacular panoramic view of the bay.

After checking out, you'll enjoy a delightful brunch as the cruise sails back to the marina. Upon disembarking, our driver will take you back to Hanoi, where you'll be transferred to Noi Bai Airport (HAN) for your flight to Ho Chi Minh City (SGN).

Upon arrival, our local guide and driver will be waiting to transfer you to your hotel in the city center.

• Included: English-speaking guide, breakfast, brunch, transportation, entrance fees, morning Tai Chi, 2 bottles of mineral water, domestic flight to Ho Chi Minh City, accommodation at Elios Hotel (or similar).

Today is dedicated to exploring the vibrant energy of Ho Chi Minh City. We begin at the Independence Palace, once the home and office of the Presidents of South Vietnam. We'll explore the preserved rooms and see the North Vietnamese tank that ended the war in 1975.

Our tour continues with a leisurely walk to the Saigon Notre Dame Cathedral, a stunning building originally built by the French. Then, we’ll visit the magnificent Saigon Central Post Office, a working post office with a beautiful design by Gustave Eiffel.

After a break for lunch (on your own), we head to the War Remnants Museum. The exhibits offer a poignant and comprehensive look at the Vietnam War from various perspectives, providing a powerful and emotional experience.

We’ll end the day at the iconic Ben Thanh Market, which has been open since 1870. This bustling market is the perfect place to shop for souvenirs, practice your bargaining skills, and sample some delicious local street food.

• Included: English-speaking guide, breakfast, transportation, all entrance fees, 2 bottles of mineral water, accommodation at Elios Hotel (or similar).

Today, we take a special excursion to the Cu Chi Tunnels, one of the most significant sites in Vietnam War history. This vast underground network, stretching over 250km, was dug by hand and served as an underground city for the Viet Cong. You'll have the opportunity to crawl through a section of the tunnels, giving you a powerful sense of the resilience and ingenuity of the Vietnamese people.

Optional: For those seeking a thrill, you can try real gun firing at the Cu Chi shooting range (additional cost).

Our journey continues to Tay Ninh to visit the sacred Cao Dai Temple. Caodaism is a uniquely Vietnamese religion that blends elements of Buddhism, Taoism, Confucianism, and Catholicism. We’ll aim to attend the midday mass, where you can witness the beautiful and colorful ceremonies firsthand.

After lunch at a local restaurant, we'll transfer back to your hotel in Ho Chi Minh City.

• Included: English-speaking guide, breakfast, lunch, transportation, all entrance fees, 2 bottles of mineral water, accommodation at Elios Hotel (or similar).

Get ready to experience the rhythm of life on the legendary Mekong River. Our guide and driver will take you to Cai Be. We'll board a boat to explore the canals, which are lined with lush fruit orchards.

We'll visit local craft workshops where you can see how rice popcorn, coconut caramel, and rice paper are made. Take a leisurely bike ride or walk on village paths to discover the serene Phu Chau Pagoda and meet local people. Lunch will be a culinary delight, featuring a local specialty—the famous "elephant ear fish." Later, enjoy a small rowboat ride through canals shaded by fruit trees, tasting delicious tropical fruits along the way.

We will then continue our boat trip to Vinh Long before transferring to Can Tho. You'll arrive in the late afternoon, check into your hotel, and have free time to explore the city located on the banks of the Mekong River.

• Included: English-speaking guide, breakfast, lunch, boat trip, transportation, bike ride, 2 bottles of mineral water, accommodation at Ninh Kieu Riverside Hotel (or similar).

Start your day with an early boat trip to the famous Cai Rang Floating Market, the largest and most lively floating market in the Mekong Delta. Hundreds of boats filled with goods like rice, fruits, and crafts create a bustling, colorful scene.

After the market, we’ll continue our boat trip through the canals to visit a beautiful fruit garden. We’ll also stop at the Binh Thuy ancient house, a well-preserved historic home and the setting for the famous French film "The Lover."

In the afternoon, we will transfer back to Ho Chi Minh City.

• Included: English-speaking guide, breakfast, lunch, boat trip, transportation, all entrance fees, 2 bottles of mineral water, accommodation at Elios Hotel (or similar).

Enjoy a final breakfast at your hotel. At the scheduled time, our driver will pick you up and transfer you to Tan Son Nhat Airport (SGN) for your departure flight.

We hope you leave with incredible memories of your classic Vietnam adventure!

• Included: Breakfast, transportation, 2 bottles of mineral water.