Vietnam Grand Tour 9 Days: Mekong Delta Charm, Saigon History, Ninh Binh & Halong Bay Cruise Adventure

The Experience: Conquer the city's highlights, moving from the powerful history of the war to the stunning remnants of French Colonial grandeur.

Start your day with a deep dive into history at the Independence Palace. Wander through the preserved rooms of the former presidential home and stand where the historic tank crash-landed, providing an unflinching insight into the war's conclusion. Next, enjoy a charming walking tour of the French Quarter. Marvel at the majestic Saigon Notre Dame Cathedral and step inside the exquisite Saigon Central Post Office, a stunning Gustave Eiffel-designed landmark.

The afternoon takes a reflective turn at the War Remnants Museum, offering a necessary and sobering perspective on the Vietnam War. Conclude your historical conquest with a sensory explosion at Ben Thanh Market. Dive into the bustling chaos, hunt for unique souvenirs, and sample incredible local street foods—the perfect end to your day of urban immersion.

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

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

The Experience: Trade the city's pulse for the peaceful harmony and genuine warmth of the Mekong Delta's riverine life.

After breakfast, we journey south to Cai Be. Immediately upon arrival, you’ll step onto a local boat to experience the legendary Mekong Delta charm. Glide along narrow canals lined with lush orchards. Stop to observe authentic local experiences at traditional craft workshops, seeing how rice paper and coconut candy are made.

The highlight is your moment of closeness to nature: bike or walk along shaded village paths, past serene gardens and the ancient Phu Chau Pagoda. Enjoy a delicious local lunch, savoring the famed Elephant Ear Fish. Finally, you’ll board a small sampan for a tranquil row through the fruit-tree-shaded canals, tasting delicious seasonal fruits harvested nearby. You'll carry the memory of this gentle rhythm back to Saigon in the late afternoon.

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

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

The Experience: Descend into the legendary Cu Chi Tunnels and witness a unique cultural conquest before flying north to the historic capital.

Your morning is dedicated to history and resilience at the Cu Chi Tunnels. Explore the massive, 250km underground city, learning about the tenacity of the Viet Cong. For those seeking a thrilling conquest, you have the option to crawl through a short section of the tunnel system. Optional: You may try firing real weapons at the Cu Chi shooting range (paid locally).

We continue to Tay Ninh to visit the Cao Dai Temple (Holy See). Prepare to be amazed by the kaleidoscopic, multi-faith architecture. If timed for the midday mass, you will witness the unforgettable ceremony where followers in stunning, vibrant robes gather—a truly unique moment of cultural discovery. After a local lunch, we transfer to the airport for your evening flight to Hanoi. Upon arrival at Noi Bai Airport, our guide will greet you and transfer you to your hotel in the heart of the capital.

• Included: English Speaking Guide, Meal (B, L), Private Transportation, Entrance Fees, Domestic Flight (SGN-HAN).

• Accommodation: Conifer Grand Hotel (Deluxe Room) or similar.

The Experience: Explore the refined heritage of a thousand-year-old capital, from scholarly temples to the enchanting chaos of the Old Quarter.

Your exploration of the North begins at the Temple of Literature, Vietnam’s first national university, a beautiful complex dedicated to Confucius. Next, choose your museum—be it the National History Museum, the insightful Hoa Lo Prison (Hanoi Hilton), or the Fine Art Museum—for a deeper historical insight.

The afternoon is dedicated to the Ho Chi Minh Complex, where you can visit (outside) the Mausoleum and walk through the tranquil gardens to the Presidential Palace and his simple house on stilts. We then visit the unique One-Pillar Pagoda and the peaceful Tran Quoc Pagoda on West Lake. We conclude with a walking tour of Hanoi’s Old Quarter—36 streets, each a vibrant living museum. End your day with the unique spectacle of the Water Puppet Show, a folk art that brings Vietnamese culture to life on water.

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

• Accommodation: Conifer Grand Hotel (Deluxe Room) or similar.

The Experience: Achieve closeness to nature during a tranquil escape to Ninh Binh, often called the "Halong Bay on Land."

Today, we journey to Ninh Binh, a region rich with geographical wonders. We begin with a visit to Hoa Lu, Vietnam's ancient capital, exploring the 17th-century temples dedicated to the Dinh and Le Dynasties. Next, we explore the atmospheric Bich Dong Pagoda, crossing the stone bridge and hiking up to the unique cave pagodas for incredible countryside views.

After lunch, the main event: Tam Coc. Board a private sampan boat for a mesmerizing ninety-minute cruise down the Ngo Dong River. Your oarswoman will gently row you through three natural caves, surrounded by towering limestone karsts and emerald rice paddies—a sight of sheer natural grandeur that feels like stepping into a historical landscape painting. We return to Hanoi in the early evening, completely refreshed.

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

• Accommodation: Conifer Grand Hotel (Deluxe Room) or similar.

The Experience: The tour reaches its climax as you step aboard for a night of cruise luxury amidst the breathtaking emerald bay grandeur of Halong.

Your morning drive takes you across the Red River Delta to Tuan Chau Marina. Board your luxury cruise ship, where you'll be greeted with welcome drinks and a briefing. Check into your beautifully appointed cabin and prepare for lunch as the ship begins to glide through the magnificent limestone seascape.

The afternoon features exhilarating activities: kayak through quiet coves, offering true closeness to nature, and visit a local Pearl Farm to learn about the bay's natural treasures. Later, explore the colossal Sung Sot Cave (Surprising Cave), marveling at its millennia-old stalactites and stalagmites. Return for Happy Hour on the sundeck as the sun sets over the karsts. Conclude your day with a deluxe dinner and optional evening activities like squid fishing or a peaceful nightcap.

• Included: Shuttle Bus (Hanoi - Tuan Chau), English Speaking Guide (on board), Meal (B, L, D), Entrance Fees, Cruise Activities (Kayaking, Cave Visit).

• Accommodation: Mila Cruise (Deluxe Cabin) or similar.

The Experience: Start your day with serenity, capture final panoramic views, and reflect on your incredible conquest from the South to the North.

Awaken with a gentle Tai Chi session on the sundeck as the morning mist lifts from the bay—a beautiful, tranquil start. After breakfast, we head to Titov Island, known for its stunning panoramic views. Hike to the summit for a final, breathtaking look over the emerald bay grandeur—your final conquest of the trip.

Return to the cruise ship for a savory brunch as you slowly sail back to the harbor. Disembark at Tuan Chau Marina, where your driver is waiting to transfer you back to your hotel in Hanoi. The evening is free for you to enjoy a farewell dinner or revisit a favorite spot in the lively Old Quarter.

• Included: English Speaking Guide (on board), Meal (B, L), Tai Chi, Shuttle Bus (Tuan Chau - Hanoi).

• Accommodation: Conifer Grand Hotel (Deluxe Room) or similar.

The Experience: Depart with a suitcase full of memories, carrying the charm of the Mekong and the grandeur of Halong with you.

Enjoy your last breakfast in Hanoi. Your private driver will ensure a prompt and comfortable transfer to Noi Bai Airport for your onward journey. Thank you for choosing to explore the incredible contrasts of Vietnam with us!

• Included: Meal (B), Private Transportation.