8 Days Vietnam Essentials Tour

Begin the day with a visit to strong French colonial influence is evident at Notre Dame Cathedral and an amazing fusion of French and Vietnamese architecture within Saigon Central Post Office. Further remnants of French colonial architecture can be found strolling along Dong Khoi Street, now mixed with high rise and populated with designer shops, restaurants and entertainment. Then, you will visit Ben Thanh Market where you can mix with locals going about their daily lives while checking out the variety of goods on offer.

Afterwards, gain an insight to the spirit of the people and what they have overcome from the turbulent history of Vietnam on display at the War Remnants Museum, featuring artefacts and records of hostilities against French, Japanese and American incursions. Also of significance to the country’s history is the Independence Palace commemorating the declaration of independence and rejoining of the south with the north.

Meals included: Breakfast

You will take to the water today, with a trip to the fertile, productive region of the Mekong River Delta to see and experience the rich, vibrant culture and picturesque landscape. Beginning with a drive to Cai Be, the day’s tour will take you on a boat ride to the floating market. Meandering through the busy throng in your boat, you can see the local people trading from their vessels with travelers and other locals and perhaps buy some local produce or sample some of the dishes on offer. By afternoon, a traditional rowboat journey will take you deeper into the rich countryside, through narrow canals, to rest and experience peace among the natural surroundings. The cruise concludes mid-afternoon in the village of Vinh Long where your driver will meet you at the dock to take you back to Ho Chi Minh City.

Meals included: Breakfast

After breakfast and a one and half hour drive, you have a challenging opportunity to explore the incredible underground Cu Chi Tunnel network, which was constructed by Vietnamese fighters during the long struggle for independence. The below-ground network providing living and restorative capability formed an essential part of their strategy for success. Some tunnels have been enlarged to accommodate visitors.

Following a drive back to Ho Chi Minh City, you’ll be transferred to the airport to catch the flight for Hanoi where you’ll stay overnight.

Meals included: Breakfast

In the morning, spend some leisure time on Ba Dinh Square, site of the Ho Chi Minh Mausoleum. Later, visit Ho Chi Minh’s House on Stilts, the nearby One Pillar Pagoda and Vietnam’s Confucius Center and first university, the Temple of Literature.

In the afternoon, proceed to Hoa Lo Prison (called the Hanoi Hilton by American POW soldiers), followed by the Vietnam Museum of Ethnology, the best place to learn about Vietnam’s 54 ethnic groups from the rich collections of objects, photos, video tapes and cassettes.

Pay a visit to a local craftsman’s house to learn how the water puppets are made and enjoy a unique water puppet show, a favorite experience for all visitors to Vietnam and the highlight of any Vietnam tour.

Meals included: Breakfast

Note: Please note the Ho Chi Minh Mausoleum is closed on Fridays and Mondays and most museums are closed on Mondays. Your guide may adjust the itinerary accordingly.

The next day and a half promises the enriching experience of a Halong Bay cruise, beginning with a 2.5-hour drive from Hanoi to the World Heritage site. Over 1,600 limestone karst islands dot the bay, traditional sampans and junks sail the glittering waters, grottos, thick forests, and hidden coves complete a movie-magical picture. Check in for the cruise at mid-day, in time to be served the lunch, before embarking on a memorable adventure. Along the way a variety of optional activities like kayaking, swimming, diving can add to the fun of this trip.

Meals included: Breakfast, lunch and dinner

Get an early start today if you want to join a Tai Chi lesson with other passengers on the deck, or just soak up the beautiful view of limestone islands, charming beaches and amazing grottos. The cruise will pass by the Bai Tu Long Bay later and continue until disembarkation at 11:00am following brunch. Our guide and driver will meet you at the pier for the drive back to Hanoi, arriving at the hotel at around 3:00pm. The rest of the day is free for you to enjoy at leisure.

Meals included: Brunch

Use the morning to relax or explore before you are escorted our guide and driver to the airport for your flight.

Meals included: Breakfast