WONDERS OF VIETNAM TOUR

Day 1: Arrival – Ho Chi Minh City Sightseeing Tour
Day 2: Ho Chi Minh Sightseeing Tour to Cu Chi Tunnels
Day 3: Ho Chi Minh City Tour to Mekong Delta
Day 4: Can Tho – Vinh Long Sightseeing Tour
Day 5: Ho Chi Minh Tour to Da Lat – Da Lat City Tour
Day 6: Da Lat Sightseeing Tour to Nha Trang
Day 7: Beach Tour in Nha Trang
Day 8: Nha Trang to Da Nang – Hoi An Sightseeing Tour
Day 9: Hoi An Sightseeing Tour to Hue
Day 10: Hue Sightseeing Tour
Day 11: Hue flight to Hanoi – Ha Noi City Tour
Day 12: Ha Noi – Ha Long Bay Cruise
Day 13: Ha Long Bay Cruise – Ha Noi
Day 14: Ha Noi Full Day Tour to Hoa Lu & Tam Coc
Day 15: Ha Noi – Departure

DAY 1: ARRIVAL – HO CHI MINH PACKAGE TOUR (-/-/-)

On arrival at Tan San Nhat Airport, you are met by our guide and transferred to hotel. The bustling Ho Chi Minh City, still called Saigon by many locals, is a center of commerce, finance, culture and tourism in Vietnam. This metropolis, contradiction of its northern counterpart, is crowded with bikes and motorbikes, excited by numerous shopping areas and sidewalk cafes. (If time permits) we stroll around the down town to explore the different local ways of life.
O/N in Ho Chi Minh.

DAY 2: SAI GON SIGHTSEEING + CU CHI TUNNELS TOURS (B/-/-)

Morning: We spend a half day exploring the captivating Ho Chi Minh City. The most places of interest are located near the town center. We pass by the now-demolished wartime American Embassy on our way to the Reunification Palace. This famous edifice was a former residence of the President of Southern Vietnam until end of April 1975. Close to the palace are some striking French colonial structures including the Notre Dame Cathedral and the Old Sai Gon Post Office. We follow these with a visit to the Jade Emperor Pagoda and the War Remnant Museum with a wealth of images from the notorious conflicts. The sightseeing ends up with a walk around the retail Ben Thanh Market where anything and everything is for sale!

Afternoon: Transfer about 30km north-west of Ho Chi Minh City to Cu Chi town. Cu Chi tunnels were used as the base from which the Vietnamese mounted their operations of the Tet Offensive in 1968. The incredible underground network in Cu Chi stretched over 200 kilometres and became legendary during the American war. The extensive tunnels have been specially constructed with living areas, weapon factories, filed hospitals, command centres, plus accommodation. Today we have an excursion to Cu Chi Tunnels to visit an exposition hall and a widened section of the tunnels to get a feel of the underground life. There are also possibilities to fire off rounds from an AK47 or MK16 at the nearby rifle range.
Transfer back to Ho Chi Minh City.
O/N in Ho Chi Minh City.

DAY 3: HO CHI MINH CITY – MEKONG CRUISE TOURS TO MY THO & BEN TRE – CAN THO (B/L/-)

Pick up at your hotel in Ho Chi Minh city and start the trip to My Tho. Upon arrival, visit Vinh Trang pagoda which sated back to the late 19th century. Then  boarding the sampan and cruising down the river around the four beautiful islands known as Dragon, Unicorn, Phoenix and Tortoise islands.

Stop over at Unicorn Island, go walking in the village paths to contemplate orchards, enjoy tropical fruits, and Vietnamese folk music performed by the local people. Visit the fruit plantation. Be rowed in a small sampan through the Thoi Son canal and treat yourself to the beauty of the countryside, visit the family business & bee-keeping farm, enjoy honey tea and coconut candy workshop.

Have lunch at the local restaurant. Break time.

The afternoon is time for cycling around the Tan Thach village, meeting the local people to experience their daily life in the Mekong delta. Relaxing on hammocks to enjoy the cool breeze is for those do not want to join the cycling trip. Proceed to Can Tho City and overnight in Can Tho.
O/N in Can Tho. 

Day 4. Vietnam Tour of Wonders to Saigon, Dalat, Nha Trang, Hoan, Halong & Hanoi: Can Tho Sightseeing Tour – Vinh Long to Ho Chi Minh (B/L/-)

The lively floating market is a major part of sightseeing tour in Mekong Delta. Upon leaving Can Tho we set off on a short drive to Vinh Long and board a boat for an exciting excursion around the tributaries of the mighty Mekong River. Along the way we explore various local industry cottages including rice paper makers and bonsai nurseries.

The next stop is Cai Be floating market, whose trading way is unique since each boat usually sells one particular item such as pumpkins, pineapples, sugar canes,.. In order that the customer knows where to shop, they hang that item from the highest part of the boat. On arrival in Cai Be Town we meet up with our waiting vehicle and drive back to Ho Chi Minh, stopping off en route to see the beautiful Vinh Trang Pagoda and the Saigon’s Chinatown, locally named Cho Lon. This bustling area is crammed with fascinating temples and mysterious, narrow lanes.
O/N in Ho Chi Minh.

DAY 5: HO CHI MINH – DA LAT SIGHTSEEING TOURS (B/-/-)

After having breakfast at hotel, you’ll be escorted to the airport for a short flight to Da Lat which is sometimes known as the “City of Eternal Spring”. Once arriving in Da Lat we can soak up the cool climate as much as we want by spending our time to wander around and catch our first glimpse of this town. The influence of the French is evident in local culture and architecture since Da Lat was founded as a hill retreat for the colonials to escape the oppressive heat in the coastal plains and the chaos of Saigon. This charming town is set around a lake and surrounded by forests, waterfalls and rolling countryside.
O/N in Da Lat.

DAY 6: DA LAT PACKAGE TOUR TO NHA TRANG (B/-/-) 

Today we enjoy a drive through the charming pine hill to the summer residence of Vietnam’s last Emperor Bao Dai. He was forced to abdicate in 1945, shortly after the end of the World War II. This mansion displays a lovely collection of Vietnam treasures. We follow it with a trip to the sacred Lam Ty Ni Pagoda and the Hang Nga Guesthouse. This construction is well known as the Crazy House because of its bizarre architecture. The lively central market and the old rail station are also visited before we travel by roads passing through the undulating terrains to the picturesque coastal town of Nha Trang. En route we make stopover at the scenic Ngoan Muc Pass and the Po Klong Jarai Cham Towers. These amazing structures represent an interesting culture and a colorful history of the Cham people in central coast areas.
O/N in Nha Trang.

DAY 7: NHA TRANG BEACH TOUR (B/L/-)

The turquoise water surrounding a string of islands and the white sandy beach stretching the whole length of Nha Trang City make it one of Vietnam’s premier beach resorts. We board a boat to explore the coastal islands. The aquarium lake is our first stop before we head out to Hon Mun Island. Today we have plenty of time to enjoy swimming and snorkeling on the blue and clear water or simply lazing on a beach.

The thrilling boat trip continues towards Hon Tam Island, giving us a choice of various water sports and good restaurant for lunch. By mid afternoon we cruise back to Nha Trang Pier and complete our day with a short city tour. The impressive Ponagar Cham Towers overlooking the colourful fishing port, and the famous Long Son Pagoda with its huge Buddha image are a major part of our sightseeing.
O/N in Nha Trang.

DAY 8: NHA TRANG – FLIGHT TO DA NANG – DA NANG & HOI AN SIGHTSEEING TOUR (B/-/-)

The following destination of our trip is Danang via a short flight from Nha Trang on

VJ580 (12:10 13:10)

On arrival we are greeted by our guide and driven to Danang Center for an interesting visit to the famous Cham Museum, formerly the Ecole Francaise d’Extreme Orient.

This museum contains many exquisite limestone carvings from the vanquished Kingdom of Champa which has been the central coastal littoral prior to the march of the Vietnamese nation south. We continue driving to Hoi An which was originally a Cham seaport but has been influenced down centuries by a myriad of traders from various cultures.

There are plenty to see in this tranquil and delightful town, some of which are the famous Japanese Covered Bridges, the Pottery Museum, the 200 years old Tamky House, the Chua Ong Pagoda and the vibrant market. We include these sites in an enchanting walking tour past many low tiled houses scattered along the small streets and assembly halls which reflect the town’s multi-cultural past.
O/N in Hoi An.

DAY 9: HOI AN – HUE SIGHTSEEING TOURS (B/-/-)

Heading out of town we drive towards Hue, which was once the feudal capital of Vietnam from 1802 to 1945. Along the way we visit the Danang Beach and the sensational Marble Mountains, whose peaks represent the five elements of the universe. The winding road begins as we make our way up the spectacular Hai Van pass.

A view from the top of the pass is one of Vietnam’s most impressive panoramic scenes. On arrival in Lang Co, we make a break by the beach for a leisurely swim. The impressive drive will deliver us to Hue by early afternoon. We start our sightseeing tour with the massive citadel, containing the Imperial City and the Purple Forbidden City.

This royal residence was all but destroyed during the 1968 Tet Offensive, however it is still fascinating to walk among the ruins. Close to this masterpiece is Hue Imperial Museum which displays an interesting collections of bronzes, Chinaware, court robes and various emperors’ personal belongings.
O/N in Hue.

DAY 10: HUE – SIGHTSEEING VACATION (B/-/-)

At 8:00 am our guide and driver welcome you at hotel and start day trip to explore Hue Imperial City. This morning, you will start your tour by making a dragon boat trip on Perfume River and enjoy the fresh atmosphere of Hue. Visit the famous Thien Mu Pagoda upon arrival at the dock to discover Buddhism in Hue. Then you will be transferred to visit the Imperial City (Citadel), the Royal Palace of Nguyen Dynasty. Explore the glory history and stunning architecture inside this complex. Next, you are free to go shopping at Dong Ba Market, you can also discover the interesting local life here while looking for souvenir for friends and family. Have lunch at the restaurant.

Afternoon is the time for Nguyen Emperors’ Mausoleums. You will have chance to visit two of three most famous tombs. Visit Khai Dinh Mausoleum to admire the spectacular architecture which was influenced by Oriental and Western styles. Then visit Minh Mang Mausoleum and discover its traditional style with a peaceful atmosphere. Back to Hue city and end tour at your hotel.

O/N in Hue.

DAY 11: HUE – FLIGHT TO HANOI – HANOI CITY TOUR (B/-/-)

Upon leaving Hue we set off on a short drive to airport for flight to Hanoi on VN1542 (10:25 11:40)

On arrival at Noi Bai Airport, you are met by our guide and transferred to hotel. The capital of Vietnam, Hanoi is a stylish and gracious city that retains an unique old world charm and some Asia’s most striking colonial architecture. The many lakes and parks make for relaxing atmosphere.

Later on, We follow it with a visit to the Temple of Literature, which is well known as the first university of Vietnam and the History Museum with an excellent collection of artifacts illustrating the Vietnamese history. Later on, we will take a short visit at Hilton Prison where Vietnamese soldiers did captured & detained American pilots from 1967 till 1973 to learn more about the history of Vietnam war against American Imperialists.

Afterwards we drive to the Tran Quoc Pagoda and Quan Thanh Temple. They are some major highlights set by the beautiful West Lake. We also visit the old quarters and the peaceful lake of Hoan Kiem with its sacred temple. In front of this lake is the famous water puppet theatre where we will see a fantastic performance.

If time permits we enjoy a short cyclo ride through the bustling old quarter streets named after the specific goods once offered for sale at these places.
O/N in Ha Noi.

DAY 12: HANOI – HALONG BAY CRUISE (B/L/D)

7:30 – 08:30: Our SHUTTLE BUS with tour guide will pick you up at your hotels.

10h30: Stopover in Hai Duong city  where you can experience our hand-made Vietnamese handicraft products.

12h30: Arrive in Tuan Chau Marina Pier (Tuan Chau Island). Followed by activities:

+ Boarding HALONG BAY CRUISEs for departure.

+ Welcome drink will be served and cruise briefing, safety instructions, check-in cabins by Cruise Manager.

+ Great lunch is served while cruising passing by islets, through Hoa Cuong floating village.

+ Exploration of Halong Bay passing by Soi Sim Beach, Coconut Three Island. Then arrive in the area of Surprising Cave.

+ Kayaking & swimming or climbing up to the mountain and getting a complete view of Halong Bay at Titov Beach

+ Joining our COOKING CLASS on the sun-deck. Let’s see how to make the fresh/fried spring rolls and mix fish-sauce.

+ Enjoy sunset party with fruits and wine.

19:30: Under the magnificent night sky, Our luxury set-menu dinner is served with a variety of Vietnamese and Asian foods.

Evening activities include:

+ Join the SQUID FISHING on boat with our crews. You can enjoy the squid cooked with assistance from our chef.

+ Or Laze yourself with our happy-hour drinks at the bar.

Overnight on Cruise.

DAY 13: HALONG CRUISING TOUR – HANOI (B/L/-)

06:15: Tai Chi class on the Sun-deck.

07:15: Have breakfast with Coffee, tea and Bakeries on board.

08:00: Visit the SURPRISING CAVE (Hang Sung Sot) discovered by the French in 1901. Opened for tourists since 1936, now it is a must-to-see and a symbol for geology value of Halong.

09:30: Check out time. Then relax on the sun-deck or inside the restaurant to enjoy the bay’s scenery.

10h15: Enjoying a traditional Vietnamese lunch while cruising back to the pier.

12:00: Disembarkation at Tuan Chau Pier. Our car will be at your disposal to pick you up then drive back to Hanoi.

16:00: Arrive in Hanoi. End of the trip!
O/N in Ha Noi.

DAY 14: FULL DAY TOUR TO HOA LU & TAM COC (B/L/-) 

08.00 – 8.30: We pick you up at your hotelDeparture for Hoa Lu –Tam Coc. The area of Tam Coc and Hoa Lu is characterized by the limestone geology that gives rise to the towering karsts that make this picturesque area so unique … There is beautiful roadside scenery on the way
10.30: After arriving in Ninh Binh province, the guide takes you to visit Hoa Lu – the Ancient Royal capital of Vietnam
12.10: You’ll have lunch at a nice restaurant before boarding a small boat to visit Tam Coc which means literally: “Three Caves”. With HaLong type views of majestic limestone cliffs and mysterious yet inviting caves, as well as countryside sights like peaceful streams, rice paddies and deserted green fields, Tam Coc really has it all17.00: Depart for Hanoi and arrive back in the city around 19.00

O/N in Ha Noi. 

DAY 15: HANOI – DEPARTURE (B)

There is a free time to relax or further explore Ha Noi. The tour ends after your transfer to Noi Bai Airport for departure.

*Inclusions:

•  Transportation in private air-conditioned vehicle with driver
  •    Air tickets: Nha Trang – Da Nang , Hue – Ha Noi
  •    Accommodation in hotels ( twin shared room)
  •    Meals as indicated: B = breakfast, L = lunch
  •    English or French speaking guide
  •    Entrance fee to indicated sights
  •    Water puppet show
  •    Boat trips
  •    Pure bottled water & wipes

*Exclusions:

Other meals, tip, drinks, airport tax, single room, personal expenses, insurance,…