Quintessential Vietnam Experience | 7N/8D

Upon arrival at Noi Bai International Airport, meet your local tour guide and transfer to your hotel in Hanoi. Standard check-in is from 14:00 hrs. The first part of the day is kept at leisure, allowing you to relax after your international flight.

In the afternoon, begin a guided Hanoi city sightseeing tour with a visit to Van Mieu – Quoc Tu Giam (Temple of Literature), Vietnam’s first imperial university, built in 1070 during the Ly Dynasty. Continue to the scenic Hoan Kiem Lake complex, including Ngoc Son Temple, The Huc Bridge, But Tower, and Dai Nghien (Ink Stone).

Later, enjoy a traditional cyclo (pedicab) ride through Hanoi Old Quarter, exploring the iconic 36 streets, known for their vibrant street life and historic charm.

Overnight stay in Hanoi.

After breakfast, depart from Hanoi to Ha Long Bay, traveling through the scenic countryside of northern Vietnam. On arrival, board a traditional Ha Long Bay cruise and begin an unforgettable exploration of one of Vietnam’s most iconic natural wonders and a UNESCO World Heritage Site.

Enjoy a five-hour cruise across emerald waters, surrounded by nearly 3,000 limestone karst islands rising dramatically from the sea. Sail past hidden beaches, impressive grottoes, and beautiful limestone caves. The cruise includes time to explore natural caves and enjoy a leisurely swim in a secluded cove (weather permitting), offering a perfect blend of relaxation and discovery.

Overnight stay on board the cruise in Ha Long Bay.

Wake up to the tranquil surroundings of Ha Long Bay and begin the day with a refreshing Tai Chi session on the sundeck. Enjoy a light breakfast on board as the cruise continues through the bay’s calm waters and dramatic limestone karst formations.

Later, take a sampan boat ride to Luon Cave, a serene natural tunnel surrounded by towering cliffs and lush greenery. Return to the cruise for a relaxed brunch on board, followed by disembarkation at the pier and transfer back to Hanoi.

Proceed to the airport to board your domestic flight to Da Nang (VN169: 16:45 – 18:10). Upon arrival in Da Nang, meet your local representative and transfer to your hotel for check-in.

Overnight stay in Da Nang.

After breakfast, depart from Da Nang to Ba Na Hills, one of Central Vietnam’s most iconic mountain destinations. Arrive at the Ba Na Hills cable car station and enjoy a scenic ride high above dense forests, waterfalls, and misty mountain landscapes, offering a unique perspective of Ba Na Mountain’s pristine ecosystem.

Begin sightseeing at Le Jardin d’Amour, exploring the remains of French Villas, historic wine cellar ruins, and Linh Ung Pagoda, home to a 27-metre Buddha statue. Continue via the second cable car to Gare Debay, reaching the summit area of Ba Na Hills. Enjoy leisure time at Fantasy Park, one of the world’s largest indoor amusement parks (select rides included as per Ba Na Hills policy).

Enjoy a buffet lunch at a Ba Na Hills restaurant. In the afternoon, reach the Peak of Chua Mountain (1,487 metres) and take in sweeping panoramic views of Da Nang city and surrounding landscapes. Visit the world-famous Golden Bridge, a highlight of any Vietnam itinerary.

Later, descend by cable car and return to Da Nang, with free time for shopping in the evening.

Overnight stay in Da Nang.

After breakfast at the hotel, depart from Da Nang to Hoi An for a day of cultural and local experiences. Begin with a visit to the Bay Mau Coconut Forest, where you will enjoy a traditional round bamboo basket boat ride through peaceful waterways. Learn basic fishing techniques, experience rural life, and watch the lively basket boat spinning (“shaking boat”) performance, a signature highlight of this eco-tour.

In the late afternoon, continue to Hoi An Ancient Town, a UNESCO World Heritage Site. Enjoy a walking tour across the iconic Japanese Covered Bridge, visit historic Chinese Assembly Halls, and admire well-preserved ancient houses. Stroll along the Thu Bon River, browse local markets, and enjoy free time for shopping handcrafted lanterns, silk products, or opting for same-day tailoring.

In the evening, explore the vibrant Hoi An Night Market. Guests may optionally enjoy a lantern boat ride and release colorful floating lanterns on the river (at own expense).

Later, return to Da Nang.
Overnight stay in Da Nang.

After breakfast at the hotel, transfer to the airport for your domestic flight from Da Nang to Ho Chi Minh City. Upon arrival, meet your local representative and transfer to the hotel for check-in.

In the afternoon, begin a guided Ho Chi Minh City (Saigon) sightseeing tour. Visit the War Remnants Museum, one of the city’s most important historical landmarks, offering insight into Vietnam’s struggle for independence through photographs, documents, and preserved artifacts.

Continue to the historic Reunification Palace, a key site marking the end of the Vietnam War in 1975. Nearby, view the iconic Notre Dame Cathedral (outside only) and the colonial-era Central Post Office, both fine examples of French architecture.

Conclude the day with shopping time at Ben Thanh Market, a symbol of Saigon and a great place for souvenirs and local goods.

Overnight stay in Ho Chi Minh City.

After breakfast at the hotel, depart from Ho Chi Minh City to My Tho, the gateway to the Mekong Delta. En route, visit the peaceful Vinh Trang Pagoda, a beautiful Buddhist complex reflecting a blend of Vietnamese, Khmer, and Chinese architecture.

Arrive at the My Tho Tourist Boat Station and cruise along the Tien River, passing the famous islets — Dragon, Unicorn, Tortoise, and Phoenix — while enjoying fresh coconut juice on board. Sail past floating fish farms, learning about local aquaculture practices and river life.

Disembark at Thoi Son Island for a leisurely walk through village lanes and fruit orchards. Enjoy seasonal tropical fruits accompanied by traditional Southern Vietnamese folk music. Continue deeper into Ben Tre Province, gliding through the tranquil Chua Canal on a small rowing boat surrounded by lush countryside.

Visit a honey-bee farm to sample honey tea, followed by a horse-drawn carriage ride through Quoi Son Village, offering an authentic glimpse into rural Mekong life. Later, visit a coconut candy workshop in Tan Thach Village before returning by boat to My Tho.

In the afternoon (around 15:00 hrs), drive back to Ho Chi Minh City.
Overnight stay in Ho Chi Minh City.

After breakfast at the hotel, enjoy free time at leisure for last-minute shopping or relaxation. At the appropriate time, transfer from your hotel to Tan Son Nhat International Airport for your onward journey, marking the end of your memorable Quintessential Vietnam tour package.