Itinerary in brief:Day 1: Ho chi minh arrival
Day 2: Ho chi minh city tour ( B, L )
Day 3: Ho chi minh – Tay ninh – Cu chi ( B, L )
Day 4: Ho chi minh – Mekong delta by Le Cochinchine cruise ( B, L ,D )
Day 5: Mekong delta – Ho chi minh ( B )
Day 6: Ho chi minh – Dalat ( B, L )
Day 7: Dalat ( B, L )
Day 8: Dalat – Nha trang ( B )
Day 9: Nha trang island ( B, L )
Day 10: Nha trang relaxation ( B )
Day 11: Nha trang relaxation ( B )
Day 12: Nha trang – Danang – Hoian ( B, L )
Day 13: Hoian – Myson Holly land – Hoian ( B )
Day 14: Hoian – Hue ( B )
Day 15: Hue city ( B, L)
Day 16: Hue – Hanoi ( B )
Day 17: Hanoi city tour – night train to Sapa ( B, L )
Day 18: Sapa – Cat cat villages ( B, L )
Day 19: Lao chai – Ta van village ( B, L )
Day 20 : Sapa – night train back Hanoi ( B )
Day 21: Hanoi – Halong bay cruise ( B, L,D )
Day 22: Halong bay – Ninh binh ( B,D )
Day 23: Hoa lu – Tam coc – Hanoi ( B , L )
Day 24: Hanoi departure ( B )
Itinerary in details:
Day 1: Ho chi minh arrivalArrival at Tan Son Nhat Airport, you are warmly welcomed and transfered to hotel by private Asia View Travel’s guide with signboard, check in, and relax. Overnight at hotel in Ho chi minh.
Day 2: Ho chi minh city tour ( B, L )Pick up at hotel, take city tour of dynamic Ho Chi Minh City, still called Saigon by many locals. We visit the Reunification Palace which was the former residence of the President of South Vietnam until end of April 1975, and some French colonial structures including the Notre Dame Cathedral, the Old Sai Gon Post Office before we shall see the exhibition on Vietnam War to the famous War Museum. Lunch at local restaurant. Afternoon, we pass a place with its famous lacquers and the tour ends at the city's finest shopping street, Dong Khoi Street and the bustling Ben Thanh Market where anything and everything is for sale. Overnight at hotel in Ho chi minh.
Day 3: Ho chi minh – Tay ninh – Cu chi – Ho chi minh ( B, L )Pick up at hotel, travel by roads to Tay Ninh to see the ornate temple of Cao Dai and attend the fantastic mid-day service when the followers fill the hall wearing colored robes, a symbol of the curious combination of the Confucianism, Taoism and Buddhism. After wards we continue to the famous Cu Chi Tunnels. At the height of the Vietnam war, the tunnel system stretched from the outskirts of Saigon all the way to the Cambodian border of over 250 kilometers of tunnels. The tunnel system, built over 25 years starting in the 1940s, let the Viet Minh and, later, the Viet Cong control a huge rural area. It was an underground city with living areas, kitchens, storage, weapons factories, field hospitals, command centers. In places, it was several stories deep and housed up to 10,000 people who virtually lived underground for years.... getting married, giving birth, and going to schools.
Transfer back Ho chi minh city. Overnight Ho chi Minh City.
Day 4: Ho chi minh – Mekong delta by Le Cochinchine cruise ( B, L ,D )8:00 Am pick up at your hotel in Saigon, transfer to Caibe
12 00 AM, Boarding and check-in with welcome drink, then continue to Can Tho via Cho Lach and Tra On. Lunch on board.
Disembark for a walk or bike ride on the footpaths of the countryside to discover tropical fruit orchards and local people's activities. Mekong Delta’s countryside is a network of small tracks linking small villages and remote farms and houses together, which go through lush vegetation and cross small bridges. Nearly everywhere is an opportunity to stop for an enthusiastic welcome by local people and kids, a picture of the nature at its wildest or a delightful tasting of fruits or local products.
Cruise further to Tra On. Enjoy the beautiful scenery, picturesque boats ballet and ferry crossings over Mekong River branches, wild life on the banks, and the magnificent sunset on the river.
Dinner and overnight on board
Day 5: Mekong delta by Le Cochinchine – Ho chi minh ( B )Early wake up to enjoy sunrise on the river while being waked up by the noise of a local floating market. Mekong Delta’s floating markets are a feast for colors, smells and tastes, and they gather together countryside people for sharing goods and news from families living often in remote places: an authentic Vietnamese culture experience. After breakfast, the Cruise continues to Can Tho up the Bassac River and allows enjoying more beautiful scenery.
Arrived in Can Tho, a small boat will take you to explore Cai Rang market, one of the most bustling floating markets in the Mekong Delta with hundreds of small boats barging and jostling for space as owners sell their goods.
The car and driver pick up you, transfer back Ho chi minh city, check in, relax at hotel.
Day 6 : Ho chi minh – Dalat ( B, L )After breakfast, check out the hotel and transfer to Dalat. Stop to visit some plantations of tea, coffee, and mulberry on the way. Have lunch en-route. Enjoy the smooth drive with the beautiful landscape along the way. Arrive in Dalat at around mid-afternoon, check in, relax. Time is on your own to explore Dalat by yourself. Remember that coffee and cake in Dalat are some of the best in Vietnam and easily to be found in any finer cafes. Overnight at hotel in Dalat.
Day 7: Dalat ( B, L )Breakfast at hotel, we spend full day to discover Dalat city. 9:00 AM we take the cable car to visit Truc Lam Buddhist Meditation Monastery to visit attractive Flower Garden. We continue with Emperor Bao Dai's Summer Palace that is indicative of Bao Dai's status as the puppet ruler of an occupied country, Hang Nga Crazy House, The romantic Love Valley and XQ fine embroidery showing rooms. Overnight at hotel in Da Lat.
Day 8: Dalat – Nha trang ( B )After breakfast, check out the hotel and visit the Datanla waterfalls, then transfer to Nha Trang. Our destination for today is Nha Trang, the country's premier Resort town. This part of the country was once inhabited by an ancient civilization known as the Cham, and on the way will stop to visit Po Klong Garai Cham tower. This amazing structure, which has endured the test of time, the elements and indeed war, was built in the 13th century. We arrive in Nha Trang late afternoon, check in, relax.
Day 9: Nha trang island tour ( B, L )Start from your hotel to Cau Da port. Tri Nguyen Aquarium on Mieu Island is the first place to visit; many sea species of Nha Trang/Khanh Hoa province make a small ocean world there. Mun Island is the best island for snorkeling where you can see lots of lives colorful corals and fish. Visit a fishing village and taking a fresh lunch at the island. On the way back you will be able to see caves in which the sea swallows make their nest.
Day 10: Nha trang relaxation ( B )All day free and relax at beautiful Nha trang beach.
Day 11: Nha trang relaxation ( B )All day free and relax at beautiful Nha trang beach.
Day 12: Nha trang – Danang flight – Hoian ( B, L )We board a flight to Da Nang. Arriving in Danang international airport, the guide will pick you up and transfer to Hoian. We spend the rest of the day exploring Hoian ancient town, once a major Asian trading port in the seventeenth and eighteenth centuries. Hoi An’s architecture and relaxed lifestyle have changed little over the years. Take a leisurely walking tour of the ancient town center and visit the sites of former merchants’ homes, a 400 year-old Japanese Covered Bridge, and a Chinese Communal Hall. Believed to have been settled no less than 2,200 years ago, Hoi An was known as Faifo to early Western traders. Hoi An was one of the major ports of Southeast Asia from the 17th to 19th centuries. Chinese, Japanese, French, English, Spanish, Portuguese and other traders had small communities here, and the old wooden houses, bridges and temples that remain are reminiscent of a Vietnam of centuries past. This unique old trading town slowly became isolated due to its river silting up and by destroyed rail lines, leaving it untouched by war and frozen in time. Nowadays, this absolutely charming and relaxed town has been designated a UNESCO World Heritage Site. Overnight at resort in Hoian
Day 13: Hoian - My son sanctuary ( B )After breakfast at hotel take a trip to My Son Sanctuary. My Son is a former capital of the ancient Cham civilization that ruled in the central Vietnam area between the second century and the thirteenth century. Hinduism from India heavily influenced these peoples religion. My Son is considered to be one of the best-preserved Cham structures in Vietnam. The complex is comprised of seventy Hindu-like towers and temples dating from the second century. This site is a must-see for those people who are interested in architecture and ancient civilizations and is now one of the four world heritage sites in Vietnam. Return Hoian and free at leisure.
Day 14: Hoian – Hue ( B)This morning there is plenty of time to discover Hoian by yourself. You might like to take a boat ride with one of the local women across the Thu Bon River. Perhaps you would like to hire a bicycle and head off on a scenic ride to Cua Dai beach, about 4 km away. There's even the chance to improve your culinary skills with a Vietnamese cooking lesson. One thing is for sure - there is no shortage of things to do in this town!.
Afternoon, say good bye Hoian and embark on northern bound journey to Hue, the former imperial capital of Vietnam. Stop en route at the beautiful Non Nuoc Beach and the Cham Museum, which contains the finest collection of Cham sculpture in the world. In Danang you will visit the Marble Mountains, five sacred hills containing dozens of Buddhist shrines. The guide and driver will take you over the beautiful Hai Van Pass - Vietnam's geographical and psychological boundary between north and south. The peak of the pass lies perpetually shrouded in clouds.
Arrival Hue in Hue late afternoon, check in, relax.
Day 15: Hue city tour ( B, L )Breakfast at hotel, we then set out for the exploration of Hue's famous highlights, including the Citadel and the Forbidden Purple City. Built in the 19th century by the Nguyen dynasty, the City was home to the former Emperors of Vietnam from 1802 until 1945. We embark on a boat for cruise upstream on the Perfume River, viewing the city and the tranquil villages on the riverbank. We will walk up to visit the Thien Mu pagoda, a nicely located pagoda, overlooks the Perfume River and the beautiful scenery beyond, where you get to learn more about the Buddhism in Vietnam. One of the most poignant displays here is a car belonging to a former monk, who in 1963, drove to Saigon and set himself alight to protest against the South Vietnamese regime and its treatment of Buddhists. Disembark the board for a visit the elaborate mausoleum of former emperor Tu Duc, built decades before its occupant's death the tomb was used as a palace retreat before the emperors final resting place. Overnight at hotel in Hue.
Day 16 : Hue – Hanoi ( B )After breakfast at your hotel. 9:00 am. we then take a walk to the bustling Dong Ba Market and pass many fantastic eating spots where visitors have a chance to sample some local delicacies. Then transfer to the airport for flight to Hanoi. You are welcomed at Noi Bai airport by Asia View Travel’s guide with signboard and he will accompany you to your hotel in the city center, check in, and relax. Overnight at hotel in Hanoi
Day 17: Hanoi city tour- night train to Sapa ( B, L )Breakfast at hotel, This morning we start city tour with the Ho Chi Minh Complex. This famous site contains the mausoleum of the nation’s founder Ho Chi Minh (Close on Monday, friday & from Sep 20 to Dec 10 as annual maintenance ), the Presidential Palace and the Ho Chi Minh’s house on stilts. Close to this complex is the One Pillar Pagoda, whose origins date back to the foundation of city. We follow this with the impressive Ethnology Museum, dedicated to Vietnam's 54 ethnic groups. Lunch at local restaurant. Afternoon, visit the Temple of Literature, which is well known as the first university of Vietnam, Vietnam’s first university. Constructed in 1070, the gardens and well-preserved architecture offer a relaxing glimpse into Vietnam’s past. We continue to visit the Restored Sword Lake (Hoan Kiem Lake) and Ngoc Son Temple, do a cyclo tour around around the 36 streets of the Hanoi old quarter to learn more about simple life of Hanoian. Enjoy water puppet show- a remarkable Vietnamese art form that combines traditional music, fireworks, underwater puppeteers, and elaborate puppets floating gracefully over water. Transfer to the train station for night train to Sapa. The train leaves Hanoi at around 9:00 PM. Overnight on train.
Day 18: Sapa – Catcat villages ( B, L )The train arrives at the Lao Cai train station at approximately 06:00. There will be a vehicle waiting to transfer us to Sapa. The drive to Sapa is only 33km but it takes around 1.5 hours to make our way up the mountains. Arrival in Sapa, enjoy buffet breakfast at hotel. ( There will be surcharge if you require early check in ).
From hotel there will be a tour to the hill tribe villages of Cat Cat, visiting some H'mong hill tribe’s minority peoples. As we walk to the villages nestled in the valley below Sapa, we will meet some of the local minority people on their way to and from Sapa. Here we have the opportunity to share cultural experiences with the families that live in the area. Overnight at hotel in Sapa.
Day 19: Lao chai – Tavan hill tribe villages ( B, L , D)Buffet breakfast at the hotel Embark on a lovely walk that will take us along small paths and trails and through several hill tribe villages of Lao Chai and Tavan, home to H'mong, and Dzay people. This is a absolutely spectacular walk through stunning scenery inhabited by some of the friendliest people you can meet. Stopping for a picnic lunch on the way at a family in Ta Van village. Opportunity to meet with local people and study the art of making batik and local weaving villages - study textile tradition of craft women o Black H'mong and Red Dzao. Overnight at hotel in Sapa.
Day 20: Sapa - night train back Hanoi ( B )Morning, you are free to discover Sapa town by yourself. Afternoon, we will visit the gardens of beautiful Ham Rong mountain & take part in a traditional ethnic music performance put on by the ethnic minority people. Drive back to Lao cai for the night train to Hanoi.. Overnight on train.
Day 21: Hanoi – Halong bay ( B, L,D )Arrival in Hanoi in the early morning at round 5:00 am. Please find your way by foot back to a mini hotel near the Tran Quy Cap station gate to have shower and basic set menu breakfast.
Then 8:30 AM start a 3. 5 hour drive through the Red River Delta to Ha Long City. Comfort stop en route for photos and coffee ( by your own ) before arriving to Ha Long City.
11.30 – 12.15 Welcome you at Hòn Gai Tourist International Port
12.30 Check in Overnight Cruise, welcome drink and programme introduction
13.00 – 14.30 The cruise start the journey
Lunch served with local cuisines menu and passing the paramount view at Ha Long
such as Kicking Dog Island , Fighting Chicken Islet, Huong Peak, Thien Cung Cave,Dau Go Island…
15.00 – 16.00 Explore Surprise Cave – one of the most famous caves on the Ha Long bay.
16.30 – 17.30 Small boat take you to Titop seaside: visiting islands, climb to Titop Mountain 200m in height to see the whole bay and swimming at Titop Seaside.
18.00 Return to your cruise or relaxation or enjoy sunset on the bay
19.30 – 21.00 Dinner at the restaurant with organised menu
21.00 Free at your leisure like lying on deck or going to catch squid…
Overnight on junk.
Day 22: Halong bay – Ninh binh ( B,D )Rising to the tranquil beauty of the bay we have time for an early morning dip with joys and emotions for watching sunrise on sea followed by breakfast. This morning we continue to move around the bay to find more secluded areas. The junk will be near us at all times serving as a back up vessel for those that require it. At around midday we will return to the main harbor before transferring to our awaiting vehicle for a 3-hour journey to Ninh binh. Arrive in Ninh binh, check in, relax. Overnight at hotel in Ninh binh
Day 23: Tam coc – Ninh binh – Hanoi ( B, L,)Breakfast at hotel, take aboard sampans at Tam Coc to ferry down the Boi river, spend some time relaxing on a 2 hour boat trip. The boat goes through 3 cavernous limestone tunnels, offering a cool break from the sunshine and astounding views of the cave structures. After boat tour in Tam Coc, you have the chance to visit the 15th century Bich Dong Pagoda complex. On a limestone mountain three pagodas were built, the Lower, the Middle and the Upper pagoda. Lunch at local restaurant in Tam Coc. In the afternoon transfer to Hoa lu, the ancient citadel of Vietnam in 10th century, to visit temples of two Kings: Dinh and Le, walking up and down in the beautiful Truong Yen Valley to enjoy the marvelous scenery. Transfer back to Hanoi. Overnight at hotel in Hanoi.
Day 24: Hanoi departure ( B)Breakfast at hotel, transfer to the airport for your departure flight. End of tour
Hotel accommodation
|
Location
|
Standard
|
Superior
|
First
class
|
Deluxe
|
|
Saigon
|
Le
Duy 3 *
|
Tan
hai long hotel & spa 3*
|
Norfolk 4*
|
Majestic
5*
|
|
Mekong boat
|
Le
cochinchine
|
|
Dalat
|
West Bestern
Plaza 3 *
|
West Bestern
Plaza 3 *
|
Ngoc
lan 4*
|
Ana
Mandara Villas 5*
|
|
Nha
trang
|
The
Light hotel 3 *
|
The
Light hotel 3*
|
Michelia
4*
|
Sunrise Beach Resort 5*
|
|
Hoian
|
Vinh
hung II 2*
|
Thuy Duong 3 *
|
Hoian Beach resort 4*
|
Palm Garden 5*
|
|
Hue
|
Hue holiday 2*
|
Asia hotel 3*
|
Gerbera 4*
|
Imperial
5*
|
|
Hanoi
|
Hanoi Paradise 3 *
|
May De Ville Old Quarter 3*
|
Hanoi flower garden 4*
|
De L' Opera 5*
|
|
Sapa
|
Boutique
3 *
|
Boutique
3 *
|
Chau
long II 4 *
|
Victoria sapa 4 *
|
|
Halong
boat
|
Baitho
|
Baitho
|
Emotion
|
Victory
Star
|
|
Ninh
binh
|
Queen hotel 3 *
|
Queen hotel 3 *
|
Legend
4 *
|
Legend
4 *
|
Tour includes:Accommodation in double/ twin room at hotel with daily breakfast as mentioned above
All transportation and transfers by private air – conditioned vehicles
Private english speaking guide during guided time
2 days 1 night cruise on Halong bay( private cabin – sharing boat )
2 days 1 night cruise by Le Cochinchine on Mekong river ( private cabin – sharing boat )
2 nights on train with soft sleep 4 berth/cabin Hanoi – laocai, Lao cai – Hanoi
Meals as indicated in the itinerary at local restaurants with local foods (B= Breakfast, L= Lunch; D= Dinner)
Entrance fees and permits for all sights visited
Boat cruise as stated
Air fares & airport taxes: Nha trang – Danang, Hue – Hanoi,
Mineral water & towel
Service charge & Government taxes
Tour excludesInternational flights that not mentioned above
Single Visa in Vietnam (upon request visa on arrival at 10 USD, not including stamping fee at airport at 25 USD/person )
Travel insurance ( compulsory )
Surcharge on Christmas, New Year and Our Lunar New Year
Meals not mentioned in the itinerary
Personal expenses such as Telephone, Laundry bills..
Tips and gratuities