Designed to capture the real essence of Vietnam, this guided nine-day journey is a fascinating introduction to one of Asia's most captivating countries. From the enchanting waterways of the Mekong Delta in the south to the dramatic karst scenery that dominates Halong Bay in the north, each destination offers a window into Vietnam's timeless culture and centuries-old traditions as well as its vibrant present.

Ho Chi Minh City is the starting point of this Vietnam tour. Affectionately known as Saigon to locals, this throbbing metropolis still retains many traditional enclaves and mesmerizing sights. Feast your senses at the bustling Chinese district of Cholon, trace the development of Vietnamese medicine in FITO Museum, browse for interesting souvenirs at Ben Thanh Market and uncover the architectural legacy of French colonialism in the city's downtown.

Leaving the hustle and bustle of the city behind, this Vietnam tour heads south to the Mekong Delta. In this fertile region criss-crossed with countless lush plantations and waterways, spend a day cruising the colorful Cai Be floating market and cottage industries to catch a glimpse of rural Vietnamese lifestyles.

Journey up to Central Vietnam to Hoi An. In this ancient port city, amble through the well-preserved streets to discover the fascinating potpurri of cultural influences on its architecture and history. This Vietnam tour package then travels from Hoi An to Hue via the Hai Van Pass, a highly scenic stretch of coastline flanked between blue oceans and towering mountains. In Hue, the mesmerizing collection of old tombs, mausoleums and citadels provide insights into the grandeur of an imperial city that for centuries shaped Vietnam's cultural and intellectual development.

This Vietnam tour then ventures north to Hanoi to visit Halong Bay, located 2 and a half hours away. Embark on an overnight cruise and take in the magnificent vistas of soaring limestone cliffs jutting out of emerald waters. Head back to the alluring capital, home to ancient pagodas, picturesque lakes, French-style colonial buildings and wide tree-lined avenues. Stroll across the tranquil compound of the Temple of Literature, wander through the narrow alleyways of the Old Quarter and marvel at the fascinating exhibits in artifacts-rich museums.

From south to north, this amazing Vietnam tour package is sure to reward you with unmatched perspectives into Vietnam's true essence. 

Essential Vietnam - Tour Map

Welcome to Ho Chi Minh City (HCMC), also known as Saigon to the locals. With the entire day at leisure, take some time to recover from jet lag or explore the city on your own.

Overnight in Ho Chi Minh City.

Today, a full day tour introduces you to the diverse attractions of HCMC. Venture into the Chinese quarter at Cholon, visit Thien Hau Pagoda, learn about traditional Vietnamese medicine at FITO Museum and browse the amazing array of goods at Ben Thanh Market. This afternoon, visit either the War Remnants or History Museum, and the former Presidential Palace for a glimpse into Vietnamese history before ending with an exploration of the city's French-influenced colonial architecture.

Note: History Museum and FITO Museum are closed on Mondays.

Overnight in Ho Chi Minh City.

This morning, enjoy a 2.5 hour drive past rural villages and rice paddies to Cai Be in the Mekong Delta. Embark on a cruise to visit the bustling Cai Be floating market, observe the production of rice paper and coconut candies at cottage industries and sample local Mekong specialties for lunch. When the cruise ends, return by road to the city.   

Overnight in Ho Chi Minh City.

An early morning flight leads you to the central port city of Danang, and onward to Hoi An. At Hoi An, take a walking tour of this ancient Southeast Asian trading town to see the Chinese-style shophouses, Japanese Covered Bridge and other historic architecture. Late this afternoon, enjoy a sunset boat trip.

Overnight in Hoi An.

Driving to Hue via Danang, the overland journey includes a stop at the Cham Museum before passing through the panoramic Hai Van Pass and the picturesque fishing village of Lang Co. In Hue, explore the Imperial Citadel where the Nguyen Dynasty ruled between 1802 and 1945 and the Thien Mu (Celestial Lady) Pagoda overlooking the Perfume River. On the ground is the Austin car Buddhist monk Thích Quảng Đức drove to Saigon to protest the Southern regime in 1963. The car can be seen in the famous picture of his self-immolation.

Overnight in Hue. 

Start your day with a visit to the city's vibrant Dong Ba Market to see it's abundance of fresh produce.  Leave the market on the back of a cyclo to navigate the old city and to Tinh Tam Lake, a favorite relaxation spot of the Emperors. From here drive to the tomb of the former emperor Minh Mang which is located in a tranquil setting of gardens and ponds. Finish your exploration of Hue at Khai Dinh's Tomb.

Depart Hue this afternoon for a short flight to Hanoi, and enjoy your evening at your leisure.

Overnight in Hanoi. 

After breakfast, travel across the rich farmlands of the Red River Delta, arriving in Halong City. Board your traditional wooden junk or The Emeraude, a classic colonial era replica steamship for the overnight journey amongst Halong Bay's wonderful emerald waters and impressive limestone formations. Lunch and dinner is served on-board.

Overnight on Halong Bay

Enjoy brunch onboard as the vessel heads back to land. On the way to Hanoi, an optional visit is at 'But Thap', one of the country's oldest pagodas. Reach Hanoi in the afternoon and visit the Ethnology Museum, a research center and museum of Vietnam's ethnic groups. Next, visit the Old Quarter and take a walking tour through charming Hang Be Market and around Hoan Kiem Lake, a bustling area of narrow streets, alleys and shops. Finish the day watching a water puppet show, a unique North Vietnam art.

Note: Ethnology Museum closed on Mondays.

Overnight in Hanoi

This morning depart your hotel for the 1076 built Temple of Literature, Vietnam's first university filled with gardens and trees. Then head to One Pillar Pagoda, one of Vietnam's most iconic monasteries, founded by King Ly Thai To in 1049. Continue to picturesque West Lake and the sixth century Tran Quoc Buddhist Pagoda. Stroll along lakeside to the nearby Taoist temple of Quan Thanh, dedicated to Tran Vu, one of the principal deities in Taoism. The rest of the day is at leisure until your transfer to Noi Bai Airport for onward flight.