Vietnam's Treasures: Hanoi, Hue, Hoi An, Halo

We welcome you to the vibrant Ho Chi Minh City. Your local guide greets you warmly at the airport and transfers you privately to your hotel. After checking into your room, you can refresh and then venture out to explore the surroundings of your hotel, creating your first memories of Vietnam.

As the sun rises, embark on a guided exploration that uncovers the city's rich history. Start at the majestic Old Post Office, its French colonial architecture transporting you back in time. Thereafter, delve deeper into historic milestones at the Reunification Palace, a site brimming with tales. Later, the War Remnants Museum awaits, casting light on the region's complex past.

The rest of the day is yours to savor. You'll have the freedom to uncover Ho Chi Minh City at your own pace, immersing yourself in its unique character and culture. For the more adventurous, you can opt to crawl through the underground networks of the Cu Chi Tunnels, gaining firsthand experience of the harsh wartime conditions endured by the local people.

(Note: The Cu Chi Tunnels half-day tour is optional)

Today is entirely at your leisure to explore Ho Chi Minh City as you wish. You may choose to discover the city's sights and sounds independently, or you can opt for an optional excursion to the Mekong Delta at an additional cost.

The Mekong Delta, often referred to as the 'rice bowl' of Vietnam, offers a unique opportunity to cruise along its labyrinthine backwaters aboard a hand-rowed sampan. Disembarking, you can immerse yourself in local village life and visit a farmer's home for a homemade lunch. This optional Mekong Delta tour provides a glimpse into the rural charm of this famous region.

(Note: One day Mekong Delta tour is optional)

Start the day with a leisurely morning before embarking on your journey to Hue. At the airport, bid Ho Chi Minh City farewell and board your flight. Upon descending into Hue, you'll be greeted by a new local guide at the airport.

Following a private transfer, you'll unwind in the cozy Colonial Deluxe Room at the Hotel Saigon Morin (or a comparable historic haven).

With the rest of the day at your disposal, feel free to explore the city at your own pace or simply relax in the hotel's tranquil ambiance.

Discover Hue, the embodiment of Vietnam's bygone imperial era. Your day begins with a visit to King Minh Mang's Royal Tomb, nestled amidst serene gardens and reflecting ponds. Next, embark on a regal adventure aboard a Royal Dragon Boat, sailing along the Perfume River, taking in the picturesque landscapes that line its banks. Your journey culminates at the iconic Thien Mu Pagoda, its seven tiers reaching towards the sky.

Venture further into the city's Unesco-listed Imperial Citadel, a living testament to the Nguyen Dynasty's grandeur, as you wander through grand palaces and pavilions. As the sun begins to set, immerse yourself in the local culture at the bustling Dong Ba Market, where the vibrant heartbeat of everyday life resonates.

Start your day with a satisfying breakfast before checking out and hitting the road to Hoi An. Travel along the scenic Hai Van Pass, a coastal drive that guarantees stunning views. Make a pit stop at the Cham Museum to learn about ancient history, then hike the Marble Mountains for a natural escape. Don't forget to relax at Da Nang's Non-Nuoc Beach, a lovely spot to catch some rays.

Once you reach Hoi An, check into the cozy Lasenta Boutique Hotel Hoi An, where a Superior City View room (or a similar comfortable stay) will be your sanctuary for the night.

Kick off the day with a leisurely walk through Hoi An's Ancient Town, a one-time bustling trading hub. Stroll down pedestrian-friendly lanes lined with houses that blend Vietnamese, Chinese, Japanese, and European architectural influences.

Your guide will lead you to visit intriguing landmarks such as merchant houses, the iconic, centuries-old Japanese Bridge, and a captivating Chinese assembly hall.

With the afternoon at your disposal, choose to deepen your connection with Hoi An. Opt for a half-day cooking class, where you can discover the secrets of Vietnamese cuisine firsthand.

(Note: The cooking class is optional)

Today is yours to explore Hoi An at your own pace. You can choose to wander the streets independently or opt for an exciting optional excursion, such as a half-day farming tour to meet local villagers and learn about their traditional agricultural practices, or a half-day tour to the Cham temple ruins of the Unesco-recognized My Son Sanctuary.

Note: (Half-day farming tour or half-day My Son holy land tour is optional)

Board a private car to the airport for your mid-morning flight to Hanoi, Vietnam's captivating capital city. Upon arriving, a local guide will escort you for a private transfer to your stylish accommodation, The Lapis Hotel (or a comparable Superior Room). With the afternoon and evening at your disposal, immerse yourself in Hanoi's unique charm and rhythm on your own.

Start your day with your guide in the hotel lobby, ready to guide you through Hanoi's historical gems. Visit Ho Chi Minh's Stilt House, the iconic One Pillar Pagoda, and the serene Temple of Literature. For lunch, savor an aromatic taste of authentic Vietnamese cuisine, followed by a visit to the Museum of Ethnology, where you'll learn about Vietnam's diverse ethnic groups.

Next, immerse yourself in the bustling energy of the Old Quarter on a traditional cyclo ride, capturing the essence of Hanoi's daily life. Conclude the day with a charming Water Puppet Show, showcasing the city's cultural heritage, set against the backdrop of the enchanting Hoan Kiem Lake.

Wrap up your Hanoi stay and hop on a shuttle bus for a three-hour trip to Ha Long Bay. You'll board a comfortable cruise and check into your cozy Athena Executive Suite with a balcony. Prepare to be wowed by the stunning limestone cliffs that rise dramatically from the water.

Your day at sea includes fun activities like learning to cook Vietnamese dishes, paddling a kayak through tranquil bays, and even trying your luck at night fishing for squid. As the sun sets, witness the bay transform into a golden canvas, leaving a lasting impression.

Spend the night on board the Athena Luxury Cruise, nestled among the bay's majestic beauty.

Start the day feeling energized with a morning Tai Chi session, followed by a light breakfast. Next, set off on a boat trip to a nearby cave, where the majestic limestone cliffs will astound you with their natural grandeur. After a satisfying brunch, it's time to disembark and head back to Hanoi via shuttle bus.

Upon arriving in Hanoi, you'll be on your own to navigate to the airport for your onward journey. Cherish the memories of your Vietnam adventure as you bid farewell.