DELUXE TOUR: Discover the treasures of Vietnam, with its vibrant cities, breathtaking landscapes and captivating history. From the bustling streets of Ho Chi Minh City to the tranquil waters of Halong Bay, each day promises new adventures and unforgettable experiences. Explore the lush Mekong Delta by boat, cycle through the countryside in enchanting Hoi An and soak up the spectacular scenery on an overnight Halong Bay cruise. End your adventure in Hanoi, taking in the highlights of Vietnam's charming capital. Staying in 5-star hotels and escorted by a expert guide, experience the best of Vietnam in style on this 9-day tour.
Trip Highlights
Included
Not Included
Itinerary
Ho Chi Minh City
Welcome to Vietnam. You will be met at Ho Chi Minh City airport and transferred to your hotel in the heart of the city. Spend the day at leisure until our welcome meeting at 5pm.
Overnight: Ho Chi Minh City
The Mekong Delta
This morning we drive to Cai Be (approx 2.5 hours) to explore the beautiful Mekong Delta. Often referred to as the ‘rice bowl’ of Vietnam, the fertile Mekong Delta is famous for its abundant harvests of tropical fruits, flowers and rice, as well as its picturesque canals. Taking a sampan from Cai Be we cruise through the maze of waterways watching the hubbub of daily life on the river. Passing colourful trading boats, house boats and children swimming we stop to visit some of the local cottage industries that produce popcorn, coco candies and paper along the way. Lunch is served in a traditional wooden home on Dong Hoa Hiep Island and later this afternoon we return to Ho Chi Minh City.
Overnight: Ho Chi Minh City | Breakfast, Lunch
Ho Chi Minh City tour
Ho Chi Minh City - Hoi An. We start the day with a visit to the sobering War Remnants Museum, before getting off the beaten track to explore lesser visited parts of Ho Chi Minh City and gain an insight into local life. Heading to District 3 we visit the oldest cafe in town and stop for a refreshment, before taking a walk through a large street-market, easing our way through a sea of conical hats and mobile street food sellers. We stroll through the heart of city's working-class district, which has remained largely unchanged since the 1960s, then head into the Ho Thi Ky quarter with its spectacular flower market and maze of quiet narrow streets. This area is also famous for its Khmer delicacies and we sample some of these traditional snacks.
After our tour of the city we transfer to the airport and board a flight to Da Nang. From Da Nang its a 30-minute drive to Hoi An, where we'll spend the next three nights.
Overnight: Hoi An | Breakfast
Tra Que farming experience
We take a leisurely bike ride through the countryside to Tra Que village this morning (we can arrange alternative transportation at no extra cost for those who don't wish to cycle). Here, we learn about age old farming practices and traditional medicine. It’s a fun, hands-on experience where you can don a conical hat, assist with tending the fields and cooking a tasty lunch!
After lunch we cycle back to town for a walking tour of enchanting Hoi An, with its cobbled streets, traditional homes and tiny shop houses. We visit the Chua Ong Pagoda, Chinese Assembly Hall, 200-year-old Tam Ky house, former merchants’ homes and the 400 year-old Japanese Covered Bridge.
Overnight: Hoi An | Breakfast, Lunch
Hoi An free day
Spend the day at leisure in heavenly Hoi An, relaxing by the hotel pool or taking a stroll around the town. Boutique restaurants, hip cafes along the waterfront, delightful craft shops and artisans, including some of Asia’s best bespoke tailors, can all be found here.
Overnight: Hoi An | Breakfast
Halong Bay
Hoi An - Halong Bay. It's an early start this morning to catch the first flight from Danang to Hanoi and transfer to beautiful Halong Bay. We then embark on a deluxe overnight cruise around the limestone peaks and emerald waters of Halong Bay.
Onboard the boat we're served a delicious seafood-based lunch, while the surrounding limestone outcrops make for a truly magical setting. This afternoon, we visit picturesque Cat Ba Island and take a leisurely bike ride to Viet Hai village - a small village nestled in the heart of Cat Ba National Park. Returning to the cruise you can participate in a cooking or fruit carving demonstration on the sundeck. Then sit back, relax and watch an incredible sunset over enchanting Halong Bay before dinner is served.
Overnight: Halong Bay | Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
Halong Bay & Hanoi
Halong Bay - Hanoi. Early birds can start the day with a Tai Chi session on the sundeck, while tea and coffee are served as the sun rises and illuminates the surrounding seascape. We then continue our exploration of the bay and end with a light brunch while cruising back to the pier, where we disembark and transfer to Hanoi.
Arriving into Hanoi mid-afternoon we take a stroll around the ‘36 streets of the old quarter’, named after the numerous guilds that once set up shop on a particular street, from silk tailors to traditional medicine shops. Then we check in to our luxury hotel and spend rest of day at leisure in Vietnam's charming capital.
Overnight: Hanoi | Breakfast
Hanoi city tour
Today we explore the capital. First stop is the infamous Hanoi Hilton (or Hoa Lo Prison as it is locally known). Here we have some time to explore this fascinating building, which was home to former US Senator and military officer John McCain, who was shot down over Hanoi in 1967 and held here during his five and half years as a prisoner of war. Then we visit Temple of Literature, which was Vietnam's first university.
In the afternoon we head to Huu Tiep lake and see the wreckage of a B52 bomber which was shot down in 1972. Then we stroll through the tiny alleys of Ngoc Ha Village, passing an ancient communal temple and typical Hanoi tube houses to reach the famous Ho Chi Minh complex. Here we visit Ho Chi Minh's house and learn all about the great man himself, who is regarded as the father of the nation. After a photo stop at Ho Chi Minh Mausoleum we head to Tran Quoc pagoda, the oldest pagoda in Hanoi. Weather permitting, we can enjoy a spectacular sunset at West Lake before returning to the hotel.
Overnight: Hanoi | Breakfast
Hanoi
Our tour comes to an end today, with an included transfer to Hanoi airport.
Breakfast
Prices & Dates
All departure dates are guaranteed to operate when there are 2 persons booked on the tour. 'Twin/Double' prices are per person when there are 2 people on the same booking sharing a room. 'Single' prices are applicable to solo travellers and anyone wanting the privacy of their own room.
Extra Prices
Hotels
The hotels listed below are ones which we frequently use on this tour. We reserve the right to substitute these hotels to ones of a similar standard.
Hotel Grand Saigon, Ho Chi Minh City
Located in the heart of vibrant Ho Chi Minh City, Hotel Grand Saigon invites guests to experience the perfect blend of timeless elegance and modern luxury. Boasting a rich heritage dating back to 1930, this iconic hotel exudes colonial charm while offering contemporary comforts and amenities. Each meticulously appointed room and suite features plush furnishings, luxurious bedding, and stunning views of the city skyline or historic landmarks. You can indulge in delicious cuisine and cocktails with a 360° panoramic view of the city at the Rooftop Grand Lounge, relax by the sparkling pool, or rejuvenate mind and body at the tranquil spa. With its prime location just moments away from Ho Chi Minh City's most iconic attractions and bustling entertainment districts, Hotel Grand Saigon promises an unforgettable stay at one of the city's most prestigious hotels.
Almanity Hoi An Wellness Resort, Hoi An
Nestled in the heart of Hoi An Ancient Town, Almanity Hoi An seamlessly combines cultural heritage with modern luxury. From its stunning salt-water swimming pool and Zen Garden to the award-winning Spa complex boasting 40 treatment rooms, guests are enveloped in tranquility. Dine in at Four Plates Restaurant, sourcing ingredients from the Organic Garden Farm, while Ngon Garden offers casual bites amidst nature. Complimentary activities like fish feeding and Tai Chi sessions enrich the experience, complemented by elegant accommodations featuring traditional wood furnishings. With its prime location near historic sites and markets, the resort is a gateway to exploring Hoi An's charm.
Au Co , Halong Bay
Setting new standards in luxury, the Au Co deluxe ship is the perfect way to enjoy Halong Bay. There are 32 spacious and elegantly appointed, air-conditioned cabins on the vessel, complete with wooden furnishings, luxurious bathrooms, free mineral water and private balconies, providing unparalleled views of the emerald waters and towering limestone karsts. The elegant restaurant and open-air bar are located on the upper deck, designed according to the principles of Feng Shui with delicious meals served and cocktails on offer. The Au Co also boasts a jacuzzi and spa room, a film and music library, and complimentary WiFi. Setting sail from Tuan Chau Port, the Au Co cruiser visits Cat Ba Island and many other highlights in Halong Bay.
Pan Pacific Hanoi , Hanoi
Set against the backdrop of picturesque West Lake, in the heart of Vietnam's vibrant capital, the luxurious Pan Pacific hotel blends contemporary sophistication with Vietnamese charm. Each elegantly appointed room and suite boasts panoramic views of the city skyline or lake, along with modern amenities and plush bedding for ultimate comfort. You can indulge in culinary delights at the hotel's award-winning restaurants, showcasing a fusion of international flavors and local specialties. Unwind with a massage at the spa, take a refreshing dip in the indoor pool with a retractable roof, or stay active at the state-of-the-art fitness center. With its central location near Hanoi's iconic landmarks and bustling Old Quarter, Pan Pacific Hanoi offers the perfect base for exploring the capital.