Highlights Of Vietnam

Welcome to Hanoi, Vietnam! Upon arrival, settle into your hotel, and if time permits, dive into Vietnam's vibrant capital. Wander bustling streets lined with markets, cafés, and must-sees like the Temple of Literature and Hoan Kiem Lake. Or, forge your own path — hidden gems are waiting to be discovered around every corner! Later, join your fellow travellers and tour leader at the hotel, marking the official commencement of your tour adventure. Vietnam's magic awaits!

Today's your day to delve into Hanoi's rich history and culture with a full-day sightseeing tour after breakfast. Start by honouring the nation's founding father at the Ho Chi Minh Complex, exploring the Mausoleum, Pagoda, Palace, and unique Stilt House. Journey to the serene Temple of Literature, Vietnam's first university, built in 1070. Then, delve into the diverse cultures of Vietnam's 54 ethnic groups at the Ethnology Museum. Conclude your day with a delightful stroll around Hoan Kiem Lake and the tranquil Ngoc Son Temple — a truly unforgettable Hanoi experience!

• Visit the Ho Chi Minh Complex

• See the One Pillar Pagoda

• Visit the Temple of Literature

• Explore the Vietnam Museum of Ethnology

• Visit Hoan Kiem Lake and Ngoc Son Temple

Set sail this morning for Ha Long Bay, a UNESCO World Heritage site and a Vietnam tour highlight. Indulge in a traditional lunch as the tour cruises through picturesque canals. Explore Sung Sot Cave, aglow with bright lights. Then, unwind with a sunset happy hour on board and be enthralled by a live cooking demo showcasing delicious Vietnamese cuisine. Next, dinner awaits, followed by leisure time on the deck, squid fishing, or an Indochina film before retiring for the night.Please note: Cruise itineraries and schedules are subject to change without pre-notice due to weather and operating conditions.

• Cruise Ha Long Bay overnight

• Explore Sung Sot Cave

• Enjoy a Vietnamese cooking demonstration

• Go night-time squid-fishing

• Watch an Indochina movie

Begin the day by taking in the breathtaking views on the Ha Long Bay cruise and unwind with a Tai Chi session on the sundeck, renowned for its rejuvenating effects. After breakfast, embark on a bamboo boat excursion with a local guide to explore Luon Cave and get up close to the bay's stunning landscapes. Lunch is served on board before returning to Hanoi to catch a flight to Hue.

• Take a Tai Chi lesson at sunrise

• Tour the tiny Luon Cave

Prepare for an enriching full-day city tour of Hue, once the political, cultural, and religious heart of unified Vietnam until 1945. Marvel at the scenic 80 km-long Perfume River that runs through the city centre while cruising aboard a traditional dragon boat, offering unique views of Hue's landmarks. Pause to explore the well-preserved Thien Mu Pagoda, the Imperial Citadel, and the Royal Mausoleum of Emperor Tu Duc. The remainder of the day is yours to wander through Dong Ba Market at your own pace. Indulge in regional cuisine and seek out souvenirs! This is an ideal opportunity to soak in Hue's vibrant culture.

• Cruise the Perfume River on a Dragon boat

• Visit Thien Mu Pagoda

• Visit the ancient Imperial Citadel

• Visit Royal Mausoleum of Emperor Tu Duc

• Shop at Dong Ba Market

Hop on the coach for a beautiful coastal journey from Hue to Hoi An. Stop along the way to admire the Marble Mountains crowned with exquisite pagodas on each peak. Upon arrival in Hoi An, spend the afternoon freely exploring this enchanting coastal gem. Stroll through the quaint ancient town, unwind at cosy cafés or eateries, and observe local life in motion. Hoi An is renowned for its tailors and boutique shops, offering ample opportunities for unique finds and bespoke garments.

• Enjoy a scenic coastal drive from Hue to Hoi An

• Discover the Marble Mountains

Today, immerse yourself in the rich history of Hoi An's ancient town with a guided tour highlighting its historic treasures. Marvel at the iconic Japanese Covered Bridge Pagoda, a symbol of the city's heritage dating back to the late 1500s. Gain insights into the innovative Sa Huynh civilization at the Sa Huynh Culture Museum. Explore the Tran Family ancestral worship chapel, showcasing a unique blend of 19th-century Chinese and Japanese architectural styles. Participate in a lantern-making workshop and visit the Phuoc Kien Assembly Hall, dedicated to the Goddess of the Sea. Enjoy the remainder of the afternoon at your leisure and freely explore Hoi An's magical streets and discover its charms.

• See the Japanese Covered Bridge Pagoda

• Visit the Sa Huynh Culture Museum

• See the Tran Family Chapel

• Enjoy a traditional lantern workshop

• See the Phuoc Kien Assembly Hall Pagoda

Enjoy a leisurely morning after breakfast, either lounging at the beach or exploring the final corners of Hoi An. Later, depart for Da Nang Airport to catch a flight to Can Tho, nestled in the picturesque Mekong Delta region renowned for its expansive canal networks and vibrant floating markets. Upon arrival, absorb the charms of Can Tho at your own rhythm. A visit to the iconic Binh Thuy Ancient House, a century-old architectural marvel featured in numerous Vietnam-set films, showcasing remarkable design intricacies, is highly recommended.

• Visit Binh Thuy Ancient House

This morning, head to the Ninh Kieu boat station and set sail along the bustling Can Tho waterway towards the renowned Cai Rang floating market. Revel in the vibrant atmosphere and witness locals trading various fresh produce while shopping for souvenirs and capturing memorable photos. Back on land, explore the lively An Binh indoor market before setting off on a walking tour of the scenic Rau Ram canal. Visit a rice noodle workshop to see the traditional crafting process of this staple food. Then, delve into the intricacies of tropical fruit cultivation at Ba Cong fruit garden, guided by a local family. End the day's adventures with a coach journey towards Ho Chi Minh City for the night.

• Cruise through Cai Rang Floating Market

• Visit An Binh Market

• Explore Rau Ram canal on a walking tour

• Enjoy a rice noodle workshop

• Taste local fruits at Ba Cong tropical fruit garden

Gain insights into Vietnam's history by delving into the Vietnam/American War, a pivotal event that continues to shape the nation. Pay homage to this tumultuous period by visiting the Cu Chi Tunnels in Ho Chi Minh City (formerly Saigon), where guerilla fighters sought refuge. Following this immersive experience, embark on a city tour to explore the vibrant streets of Ho Chi Minh City. Marvel at iconic landmarks such as the Notre Dame Cathedral, the historic Post Office, and the Presidential Palace. As dusk settles, wander through the bustling Ben Thanh Market, renowned for its diverse array of souvenirs. Don't miss the opportunity to acquire anáo dài, a traditional Vietnamese silk tunic symbolising the start of the New Year.

• Explore the Cu Chi Tunnels

• See the Notre Dame Cathedral

• See the Presidential Palace

• Visit the Ben Thanh Market

Your adventure-packed Vietnamese tour concludes with breakfast this morning. Take this opportunity to exchange contact details with your fellow travellers and reminisce about the incredible experiences you've shared. Enjoy the last day in Ho Chi Minh City, perhaps revisiting a favourite spot or trying something new. As you head to the airport for your departure flight, Expat Explore wishes you a safe journey home filled with lasting memories of Vietnam's captivating landscapes, rich culture, and warm hospitality.