Vietnam South to North Experience

Day 1: Ho Chi Minh City - Arrival

Welcome to the vibrant Ho Chi Minh City (HCMC), previously known as Saigon. Just one generation ago, HCMC was a war zone. But now, the city has transformed to become a dynamic commercial hub with modern skyscrapers and lively streets. Yet it hasn’t forgotten its past! You can easily find serene pagodas and temples, where the smell of incense fills the air with peace. And if you’re eager to learn more about the city’s history, there are plenty of museums filled with artifacts, stories and memories.

No matter your flight schedule, our friendly guide and driver will warmly welcome you upon arrival and take you to your hotel in the city center. Once settling in, you will have a chance to explore HCMC at your leisure.

Overnight in HCMC

Day 2: Ho Chi Minh City - City tour

Morning:
Your day begins with a cultural journey to the ChinaTown of HCMC, District 5. You’ll first visit Thien Hau Temple, well-known for its intricate architecture and grand coils of incense hanging overhead. Next, wander through Hao Si Phuong Alley, lined with old but colorful apartment buildings. Continue with a small walk, and we’ll explore Cha Tam Church, a symbol of religious harmony and cultural diversity in Vietnam, with a blend of Gothic and Chinese architecture. End up our morning with a shopping spree at the century-old Ben Thanh Market. You might have heard that bargaining is customary in Southeast Asia, but it’s important to approach it with respect. You should reach a fair agreement that satisfies both yourself and the seller/provider, rather than just aiming for the lowest price. So, keep a positive attitude and negotiate with goodwill – you’ll find that vendors are more than willing to accommodate your requests.

Afternoon:
Let’s turn our afternoon into an insightful history lesson at the War Remnants Museum. You’ll have the incredible opportunity to witness documents, images, and artifacts that realistically depict the devastating impact of the war in Vietnam. Wrap up the day with a free-spirited night of city discovery!

Meals included: Breakfast, Lunch
Overnight in HCMC

Day 3: Mekong Delta - Village boat trip

Morning:
Journeying out of the city, today we head to the Mekong Delta. Did you know that Mekong Delta is often called as ‘Vietnam’s rice bowl’ because its fertile lands yield much of the country’s rice? When we arrive at Vinh Long, we’ll hop onto a boat and cruise along Mekong River to An Binh Island. Our first stop is the local cottage industries where we can taste some freshly made rice paper, coconut candy, and pop-rice right from the source. Later, you’ll be welcome to visit a local homestay with a huge orchand, allowing you to pluck fruits straight from the trees. The host’ll treat you to a delicious traditional lunch, with mouthwatering Mekong specialties.

Afternoon:
Once our bellies are full, it’s time to return to the shore and explore the village of hundred-year-old brick kilns. You’ll see the whole process of traditional brickmaking and pottery crafting up close. Then, get back to our boat and glide through the maze of small canals, fully immersing yourself into the simple yet heartwarming lifestyle of the Mekong people. As the day winds down, we’ll hit the road to Can Tho, the heart of Mekong Delta.

Meals included: Breakfast, Lunch
Overnight in Can Tho

Day 4: Mekong Delta - Floating market

Morning:
Time to wake up bright and early to catch the vibrant Cai Rang Floating Market before the sun fully rises. You’ll board a sampan boat and cruise through the lively trading scene of Cai Rang where vendors crowd together with their goods piled high on boats. As the sun rises, you can easily see sellers showcasing their offerings on long poles to attract customers. Why not savor a bowl of hu tieu right onboard, just like Masterchef Gordon Ramsey did and absolutely adored? After the floating market, continue on the river to a noodle oven, where friendly locals will teach you the art of making fresh rice noodles. Our final stop is the Binh Thuy Ancestral House, offering a glimpse into the lives of Mekong’s wealthy merchant families in the 19th century.

Afternoon:
Say goodbye to the tranquil lifestyle of Mekong Delta. We’ll head to the airport for a flight to Da Nang, often known as ‘Vietnam’s best living city’. Our friendly driver will warmly welcome you upon arrival and take you to your hotel. Once settling in, you will have a chance to explore Da Nang at your leisure.

Meals included: Breakfast
Overnight in Da Nang

Day 5: Da Nang - Ba Na Hills

Morning:
Today is all about a visit to Ba Na Hills, where you’ll ride the cable car route holding five world records. As you ascend, make sure to stop at the transit station at Linh Ung Pagoda, Le Jardin D’amour flower garden, and of course, the iconic Golden Bridge, a social media phenomenon since 2018. Once you reach the top of Ba Na Hills, get ready for a whole complex of fun activities suitable for all ages.

Afternoon:
It’s time to explore the charming recreated French Village, complete with old houses, churches, and castles that pay tribute to Ba Na’s discovery by the French in the early 1900s. Then, brace yourself for thrills at the Fantasy Park, Vietnam’s largest indoor amusement park, with a lot of adrenaline-pumping games. And don’t miss your chance to have a furnicular railway ride for breathtaking mountain views before saying goodbye to Ba Na Hills.

Meals included: Breakfast, Lunch
Overnight in Da Nang

Day 6: Hoi An - Free & Easy

After an 1-hour ride from Da Nang, today is all yours to freely explore the beauty of Hoi An. Do you need some inspiration? These suggestions might be helpful for you:
– You can start with a walk through the UNESCO’s Ancient Town. Once a bustling port back in the 15th century, it’s now a complex of centuries-old buildings lining the banks of Thu Bon River.
– Why not bring back home a new wardrobe? Hoi An’s talented ateliers offer custom-made garments at affordable prices, tailored just for you in a matter of days.
– Have you ever heard about the traditional lantern crafting in Hoi An? It’s been going strong for over 400 years now! With over 30 workshops, you can easily find a place to make your own lantern.
– For all beach lovers, head to An Bang Beach or Cua Dai Beach, with white sand and crystal clear water (Make sure to only swim at areas with lifeguards!)
– And for dinner, let’s try some local cuisine. Hoi An is truly a food paradise! From famous banh mi to delicious com ga, mi quang, or banh xeo, there’s something for everyone, including vegan and Halal options.

Meals included: Breakfast
Overnight in Hoi An

Day 7: Hue - Imperial Citadel

Morning:
Our journey starts with a 3-hour breathtaking car trip along coastal roads and Hai Van Pass, treating you to jaw-dropping vistas of the boundless East Sea. Take a moment to pause at the pristine Lang Co Beach, a stunning arc of fine white sand against the backdrop of Bach Ma Mountains. Let the waves of turquoise wash your tiredness car away before we continue on to the heart of Hue.

Afternoon:
It’s time to teleport back in time at the UNESCO-listed Imperial Citadel. Built back in the 19th century, this complex was once the royal palace of Vietnam’s last dynasty, the Nguyen. Despite the ravages of war, the Citadel still holds within its ancient walls a wealth of historical treasures, including grand public buildings, opulent residences, and sacred sites of worship. Conclude our day with a leisurely stroll through Dong Ba Market. This hundred-year-old market is full of Hue’s finest crafts and culinary delights, promising to satisfy both your shopping desires and your appetite.

Meals included: Breakfast, Lunch
Overnight in Hue

Day 8. Hue - City tour

Morning:
Your day begins with a romantic boat journey along the Perfume River to visit Thien Mu Pagoda, the seven-storey historic symbol of Hue. Next, we venture to the outskirts of Hue for a historical excursion to the resting places of the Nguyen Kings – Tu Duc Tombs and Khai Dinh Tombs. These tombs are more than mere monuments – they’re living reflections of the emperors’ personalities and philosophies, as well as the fluctuations of Vietnamese history in the 19th century.

Afternoon:
We’ll head to the airport for a short flight to Hanoi, Vietnam’s capital city. Our friendly driver will warmly welcome you upon arrival and take you to your hotel in the city center. Once settling in, you can freely explore Hanoi at your leisure.

Meals included: Breakfast, Lunch
Overnight in Hanoi

Day 9. Hanoi - City Tour

Morning:
We’ll start at Ho Chi Minh’s Mausoleum to delve into the inspiring legacy of ‘Uncle Ho’, Vietnam’s beloved former leader. Next, a visit to his traditional stilt house nearby will provide insights into his presidential years during wartime. Following our exploration is the unique architecture of One Pillar Pagoda, shaped like a lotus blossom. Our guide then takes you to the Vietnam Museum of Ethnology, unveiling the cultural diversity of 54 ethnic groups across Vietnam.

Afternoon:
After lunch, hop aboard a cyclo and meander through the bustling streets of the Old Quarter, passing by vibrant shops and street food stalls. If you enjoy this unique ride, feel free to tip the elderly driver. While tipping isn’t a common practice in Vietnam, a small gesture of appreciation will surely bring him joy for his service. Our journey concludes at Hoan Kiem Lake, home to Ngoc Son Temple on Jade Island, accessed via the iconic The Huc Bridge. Afterwards, the day is yours to explore!

Meals included: Breakfast, Lunch
Overnight in Hanoi

Day 10: Lan Ha Bay - Luxury cruise trip

Morning:
Let’s swap city bustle for serene seas today! This morning, we’re off on an exciting journey to Lan Ha Bay. After a cozy ride in a private car to the port, you’ll check in and board a luxurious cruise, ready to reveal the untouched beauty of this UNESCO-listed natural wonder. Once the captain sets sail, it’s time to fill your tummy with a delicious lunch and feast your eyes with odd-shaped limestone pillars and hidden coves along the way.

Afternoon:
A bamboo boat awaits to cruise you through a 70-meter water passage of Sang Cave, where you can marvel at the majestic limestone formations above your head. After that, our cruise will drop achor in Tra Bau, a tranquil area with emerald waters where you can enjoy a refreshing swim. When the sun sets, head back to the cruise for a breathtaking view from the top deck, followed by a traditional Vietnamese cooking class. Conclude the day with a delightful dinner and an overnight stay amidst the exotic landscape of Lan Ha bay. And for those craving even more fun, how about joining the cruise staff for midnight squid fishing? Who knows, we might just reel in some squid for a late-night party!

Meals included: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
Overnight in Ha Long Bay

Day 11: Lan Ha Bay - Ao Ech

Morning:
Waking up to the melody of waves lapping against the cruise, your day begins with a Tai-Chi session on deck and a warm breakfast after. Then, the cruise’ll transfer you to Ao Ech for some sightseeing thrills, including swimming and kayaking. Fun fact: this is the very spot where the Hollywood blockbuster movie ‘Kong: Skull Island’ was filmed! Afterwards, take a moment to unwind on deck and soak in the breathtaking panoramic views of the Lan Ha Bay as we cruise back to the shore.

Afternoon:
Now, it’s time for some free-spirited exploration! You can spend your afternoon visiting any sights you didn’t get a chance to previously, like the Temple of Literature or Hoa Lo Prison, by yourself. We also recommend checking out the water puppet shows – a delight for both young and old, promising an authentic cultural experience for you.

Meals included: Brunch
Overnight in Hanoi

Day 12. Hanoi - Departure

Your journey across iconic destinations in Vietnam comes to its end. After breakfast today, you’ll get the morning to yourself – no scheduled activities. Whenever you’re ready to go, our attentive driver will be ready to take you to the airport, ensuring a seamless transition for your departing flight. Until our paths cross again on your next adventure, safe travels!

Meals included: Breakfast