Saigon
Easy
4
16 Days
Cultural
All meals
Embark on an unforgettable 16-day journey through Vietnam, where rich history, vibrant culture, and breathtaking landscapes intertwine. This comprehensive tour transports you from the bustling streets of Hanoi to the serene waters of Halong Bay, the ancient charm of Hue and Hoi An, and the lively energy of Ho Chi Minh City. Immerse yourself in authentic local experiences, explore UNESCO World Heritage Sites, and witness the diverse traditions that define this captivating nation.
Highlights
Allow the Authentic Vietnam Tour to unveil the essence of Vietnam in every moment.
Upon arrival at Noi Bai International Airport, you will be met by our local tour guide and driver, who will provide transportation to your hotel in the city center for check-in. If you have the inclination, consider embarking on an orientation tour by bicycle.
Kick off your evening with a welcome dinner, and thereafter, unwind at your hotel in Hanoi.
Breakfast at the hotel. We visited the Ho Chi Minh Complex, which encompasses the Ho Chi Minh Mausoleum, the Presidential Palace, Ho Chi Minh’s residence on stilts, and the One Pillar Pagoda. Subsequently, we proceeded to the Temple of Literature, Vietnam’s inaugural university. For lunch, we dined at a local establishment. In the afternoon, we explored Hoan Kiem Lake, Ngoc Son Temple, Tran Quoc Pagoda, and Quan Thanh Temple. In the evening, we embarked on a cyclo ride through the historic streets of the old quarter, commencing at Hang Dau and concluding at Hang Gai. Dinner was covered by the guest. We subsequently transferred to the train station for our overnight departure to Sapa via night train (schedule: 21:00 - 05:00).
We lodged overnight in an air-conditioned soft sleeper cabin.
Arrive at Lao Cai station at 05:00 hours. Collect your luggage from the station and proceed to Sapa. Partake in breakfast and a shower at the hotel prior to the commencement of your journey. Descend to Lao Chai village to visit the Tay and Day tribes. Enjoy a picnic lunch en route. Continue along the valley floor until you reach Ta Van village, renowned for its captivating beauty. Return to Sapa. Dinner will be provided at the guest’s expense.
Overnight accommodation will be provided at a hotel in Sapa.
Breakfast at the hotel will commence our journey, followed by a visit to Giang Ta Chai village, the home of the Red Zdao tribe. There, you will have lunch. After lunch, you will check out of the hotel and leave your luggage behind. Subsequently, you will prepare and proceed to Cat Cat and Sin Chai villages, inhabited by the Black H’Mong tribe. Along the way, you will be captivated by the breathtaking waterfall in Cat Cat and the picturesque surroundings. Dinner will be provided on the guest’s account. In the evening, you will be transferred to Lao Cai for an overnight train journey back to Hanoi.
During the night, you will be accommodated in an air-conditioned soft sleeper cabin.
Arrive in Hanoi at approximately 5:00 a.m. Board the train and proceed to the restaurant for breakfast. Depart for Ha Long Bay. Upon arrival, board the Huong Hai junk and check in. Have lunch, then embark on an exploration of Ha Long Bay. Visit Thien Cung and Dau Go caves, and take a scenic round trip around Tuan Chau Island.
Make a stop at Dog Island and Sail Island. Enjoy dinner on the junk, witness the sunset, and spend the night aboard. (Optional: Kayaking excursion.)
Wake up early to witness a breathtaking sunrise and breathe in the invigorating ocean air. Enjoy a leisurely breakfast on the boat, followed by a relaxing cruise through thousands of seemingly endless islands. These picturesque landscapes provide ample opportunities to capture stunning photographs.
During our cruise, we make a stop at a charming floating fishing village, where we can immerse ourselves in the legendary stories of the fishermen’s daily lives. To refresh ourselves before returning to the Halong City pier, we take one last dip in the bay. By noon, we’ll be ashore, where we’ll savor a delicious lunch at a local restaurant.
With our bellies full, we embark on the journey back to Hanoi. Upon our arrival, we’ll conclude our tour at your hotel by 5:00 pm.
To conclude your journey, board your 11:00 pm night train, equipped with comfortable AC soft sleeper accommodations, to Hue.
Arrive in Hue at 10:00 a.m. and transfer to your hotel. After morning preparations, we’ll embark on a leisurely cyclo or bicycle tour. We’ll also visit the Forbidden Purple City and Dong Ba market.
Overnight in Hue.
Breakfast at the hotel. In the morning, embark on a scenic cruise along the Perfume River. This cruise will take you to the royal tomb of Emperor Tu Duc, the Thien Mu pagoda, and the mausoleum of Emperor Minh Mang. The entire journey will be set amidst beautiful gardens and tranquil lakes.
In the evening, depart from Hue in a mini van and head to Hoi An. The drive will take approximately 4 hours, but we’ll make sure to stop at some of the most captivating sights along the way. These stops include the picturesque Lang Co beach, the awe-inspiring Hai Van pass, the fascinating Cham Museum, and the awe-inspiring Marble Mountains.
Upon arrival in Hoi An, we’ll check into our hotel and spend the rest of the day exploring this charming city.
Hoi An, a UNESCO World Heritage Site situated in the heart of Vietnam, is an ancient town that exudes a distinct Chinese charm. Located 30 kilometers south of Danang, Hoi An is situated along the banks of the Thu Bon River.
In the 16th century, Hoi An was occupied by early Western traders, leaving behind a unique blend of Chinese and Western influences. The town’s architecture is characterized by low, tile-roofed houses and narrow streets, with some of these streets retaining their original structures almost intact. Each house is crafted from rare wood and adorned with colorful lacquered details and panels engraved with Chinese characters.
Hoi An has always been a popular destination for travelers, offering a captivating blend of history, culture, and natural beauty. Whether you’re exploring the town’s well-preserved ancient architecture, savoring the local cuisine, or simply relaxing by the river, Hoi An promises an unforgettable experience.
Overnight in Hoi An.
Breakfast at the hotel will be served, followed by a transfer to the Da Nang airport for your noon flight to Nha Trang. A complimentary taxi ride will transport you to your hotel, where you can relax and unwind on the pristine white-sand beach.
Overnight accommodation in Nha Trang.
Morning pick-up from the hotel and transfer to the boat station (45 minutes). Hop on the boat and begin a day on the water. The first stop will be at Mum Island. This is one of the best places for snorkeling in Nha Trang. Hold your breath for as long as you can and dive deep into this colorful world of fish and coral. Next stop, Tam Island, for sunbathing and relaxing on the offshore beach. Lunch will be served at a nearby fishing village with a selection of fresh seafood. After lunch, we will visit Tri Nguyen Aquarium then take the boat back to Nha Trang city.
Free time in the evening and overnight at your hotel.
This morning, we will depart on an early flight at 7:45 a.m., arriving in Saigon at 8:40 a.m. Upon arrival, we will transfer downtown and check into our hotel before commencing our city tour of Saigon.
Our itinerary includes a visit to the Binh Tay Market in Cho Lon, a stopover at Thien Hau, a 150-year-old Chinese Temple, and a lacquer wares workshop. We will conclude the tour with a visit to the Jade Emperor Pagoda.
In the afternoon, we will explore the War Remnants Museum, Notre Dame Cathedral, and the historic Central Post Office. Our tour will conclude with your drop-off at your hotel around 5:30 pm.
We will be spending the night in Saigon.
Departing from your hotel in Saigon at 8:30 a.m., embark on a morning excursion to Tay Ninh, where you will visit the Great Cao Dai Temple. This sacred site houses a blend of Buddhist, Confucian, Taoist, Hindu, and Christian beliefs.
During your visit, you will witness the noon mass at the temple (duration: 1 hour). Following the mass, you will enjoy lunch in Tay Ninh.
In the afternoon, proceed to the Cu Chi outdoor museum, where you will gain insights into the renowned tunnel systems employed by the Viet Cong during the Vietnam War. This excursion offers a unique perspective on the guerrillas’ underground tactics and provides an opportunity to explore approximately 50 to 100 meters of the extensive 200 km tunnel network.
As you return to Saigon, you will have the chance to observe local rice paper workshops and enjoy panoramic views of the Vietnamese countryside and paddy fields.
Your tour will conclude with your return to your hotel around 5:30 pm.
Depart Saigon at 08:00 hours from your hotel. Proceed southward to Cai Be. Upon arrival at 10:30 hours, board a vessel for a voyage through the Mekong’s floating market. Observe the daily activities of river life, including the exchange of goods between merchant vessels and local farmers. The experience is both captivating and vibrant. Navigate through the secluded waterways and cross the Mighty Mekong to an island where we will disembark to savor fresh seasonal fruits before proceeding to Vinh Long.
Return to the bus for our journey to Can Tho, where we will spend the night.
An early start awaits us for a boat trip to the Cai Rang floating market. We have a considerable distance to cover. First, we embark on a cruise, followed by a leisurely walk along a tranquil country road. As we stroll, we immerse ourselves in the breathtaking scenery and gradually get closer to the locals, observing their daily routines. In the afternoon, we return to Saigon.
We will be back at your same Saigon hotel by 6:00 pm.
Breakfast at the hotel. Depending on the time of your departure, you may have some time for additional shopping. Subsequently, we will transfer you to the airport for your onward flight.
Farewell, and we anticipate your future visit.
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As your remarkable 16-day journey through Vietnam draws to a close, take a moment to reflect on the unforgettable experiences that have unfolded. From the bustling energy of Hanoi’s Old Quarter to the serene beauty of Halong Bay, each destination has provided a unique glimpse into Vietnam’s rich cultural tapestry and stunning landscapes.
The vibrant ethnic traditions of Sapa, the imperial grandeur of Hue, and the timeless charm of Hoi An have immersed you in narratives that resonate through generations. The sun-kissed beaches of Nha Trang and the dynamic pulse of Ho Chi Minh City have added elements of relaxation and excitement to your travels. The intricate waterways of the Mekong Delta have offered intimate insights into the daily rhythms of local life.
Every moment spent savoring local cuisine, exploring UNESCO World Heritage Sites, and engaging with hospitable communities has been a chapter in an enriching narrative—one that unveils Vietnam’s warm hospitality and resilient spirit.
As you bid farewell, carry not only photographs but also vivid memories of vibrant street markets, peaceful landscapes, and the enduring kindness of the Vietnamese people. May this journey inspire future adventures and foster a deeper appreciation for the world’s diverse cultures.
Until our paths cross again, safe travels and heartfelt gratitude for choosing to explore Vietnam with us.
Travelers holding e-visas can enter and exit Vietnam via specific airports, land border gates, and seaports.
Airports (13 international gateways)
Land Border Gates (16 crossings)
Seaports (13 designated points)
Transport Options
Health & Safety
Cultural Etiquette
Vietnam’s e-visa system and improved connectivity make it a welcoming destination for travelers seeking a blend of culture, history, and natural beauty.
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