Essential Vietnam 11 Days

As you step off your plane at Noi Bai International Airport, our friendly guide will be waiting for you at the baggage claim area. Look for the sign adorned with our distinctive Asia Tour Advisor logo and your name. Your comfort and ease are our top priorities. Once you’re ready, we’ll escort you to your hotel, providing a brief introduction to the city along the way. The remainder of the day is yours to settle in, unwind, and begin exploring Hanoi.

Hanoi, with its seven million inhabitants, serves as the capital of Vietnam. This city gracefully combines tradition and refinement, boasting French colonial architecture, tree-lined boulevards, serene lakes, and a vibrant Old Quarter. Here, you can observe locals practicing Tai Chi by the lake, and witness the lively activities of barbers and street food vendors.

Hanoi is an irresistible destination for its picturesque pagodas, ancient temples, enchanting French colonial quarter, and cultural institutions. Just as fun, however, is darting down its winding lanes and discovering your own favorite hidden corners. Hanoi’s winding streets are full of surprises from quiet cafés to vibrant local markets filled with more fresh fruit than one could imagine. Exploring these hidden gems provides visitors with a deeper and more meaningful connection to the city of Hanoi and offers a memorable visit to all.

After a satisfying breakfast at your hotel, our local tour guide will pick you up to embark on an exploration of Vietnam’s capital city, Hanoi. With over a thousand years of history, this city is rich with captivating cultural and historical sites. Your itinerary is filled with exciting sites such as visits to the imposing Ho Chi Minh Mausoleum, where the preserved body of “Uncle Ho” rests. You will explore his House on Stilts to observe how he lived and how his remarkable life unfolded to become one of modern history’s greatest names and influential figures.

In addition to these historically rich sites like Chi Minh Mausoleum, your tour guide will take you to the delicate beauty of the One Pillar Pagoda and the Tran Quoc Temple. These places of worship are a spiritual and cultural symbol of Hanoi. The One Pillar Pagoda, which dates back to 1049 when it was first built, is brimming with spiritual significance. With its special features in its structure combined with its deep historical and spiritual traditions, the Tran Quoc temple will surely provide a profound experience for tourists and ensure a deeper understanding of Hanoi’s rich culture.

After lunch, continue your journey with a visit to the millennia-old Temple of Literature. This ancient Confucius temple once served as the country’s first university and played an incredibly crucial role in exploring its role in the country’s past. The former university provided education to Vietnam’s scholars for generations.

Next on the itinerary for the day is a visit to Hoa Lo. This somber historical site once acted as a prison used by the French colonists in Vietnam for political prisoners. Later it was used by North Vietnam to house U.S. Prisoners of War. As you walk through the site you will have the chance to see exhibits and artifacts that tell the stories of the prisoners’ experiences.

To cap off your day you will have the opportunity to enjoy a one-hour cycle tour through the bustling and lively Old Quarter, immersing yourself in the vibrant marketplace atmosphere. Sample delicious dishes like Nom Du Du (green papaya salad), Banh Mi Pa Te (a sandwich that reflects Vietnam’s culinary heritage)

Our journey embarks from Hanoi where we’ll pick you up for a scenic drive through the verdant landscapes of the Red River Delta. Our destination: the world-famous UNESCO World Heritage site, Halong Bay, Lan Ha Bay. Here, you’ll embark on a luxurious cruise for an enchanting overnight cruise.

As you relax on board, you’ll be captivated by the breathtaking limestone karsts that majestically emerge from the azure waters, surrounded by thousands of jungle-clad islands seemingly suspended on the gentle waves. The turquoise waters of the Gulf of Tonkin conceal hidden grottoes and ancient caves, creating a timeless and mesmerizing world.

Enjoy a delicious seafood lunch with breathtaking views and a refreshing drink. Our next destination is a charming fishing village, where locals have ingeniously turned their boats into a floating community. Meet fishermen, explore a stunning lagoon by kayak or rowboat, and unwind on deck as the sun sets. Spend a delightful overnight stay on board!

Kickstart your day with Tai Chi on the top deck or savor the sunrise over the bay. Sip on morning coffee or tea before setting out to explore nearby islands via rowboat.

Upon returning to the junk, witness a fruit carving demonstration and participate in a cooking class, learning to create traditional Vietnamese cuisine from scratch. Enjoy a Vietnamese lunch on board as you cruise back to Halong City. Upon arrival, your driver will be waiting at the dock to take you to Noi Bai Airport for your short flight to Hue.

Upon arrival in Hue, your tour guide and driver will transfer you to your hotel

Hue is one of the most charming towns in the Central Vietnam and has a long and illustrious history as it used to be one of the main royal capitals of the country

Hue is one of the most charming towns in Central Vietnam boasting a long and illustrious history as one of the main royal capitals of the country.

On today’s exhibition, you will explore the royal city of Hue once served as an imperial capital to the Nguyen Lords, a feudal dynasty that reigned from the 17th to the 19th century. This historical city is overflowing with cultural treasures that reflect its royal past. As you travel throughout the city you will have the chance to explore splendid emperors’ tombs, ancient pagodas, and the remains of the citadel. Despite the passage of time the city of Hue retains its royal charm.

Once you have the chance to finish breakfast, a private guide, accompanied by a driver will pick you up to start an exciting day of exploration. Your adventure begins with a visit to the atmospheric Imperial Citadel, a vast complex that contains the remains of the former Imperial Palace and Forbidden Purple City, where the emperor and his family once lived. The historical site is surrounded by landscaped gardens, adding to the beauty. During the two-hour walking tour, you will have the chance to see the magnificent architecture and gardens. As you stroll through the ancient palace your guide will describe the events and the intrigue of the former royal court.

From the Imperial City, your guide will escort you to the iconic Thien Mu Pagoda, Hue’s most famous religious site, with its origins dating back to 1601. Here you will explore the pagoda’s landscaped gardens decorated with bonsai trees, flowering trees, and ponds. You will also be able to survey the seven-tiered octagonal tower and observe the monks as they perform their daily rituals and chants.

Hue is famous for its Royal cuisine which combines delicious flavors and elegant presentation. The Nguyen Emperors’ banquets were legendary, with some feats rumored to have included 300 rare dishes served in more than a thousand different bowls. Today your guide will take you to the fine-dining Ancient Hue restaurant where you will have the chance to be treated to your own royal lunch. This old-fashioned style meal brings a boutique and unique experience that recreates the sophistication of imperial dining.

After lunch, you will explore the tomb of the longest-reigning Emperor Tu Duc. Located in a tranquil setting of gardens and ponds, the tomb is a masterpiece inspired by Chinese Confucianism. The harmonious design of balance and symmetry creates a peaceful and restful environment for the emperor’s resting place.

Continue your journey through Hue with a visit to the tomb of King Khai Dinh. This remarkable structure was designed in traditional Vietnamese style with a European touch making it unique from the other tombs in Hue.

Following your immersive day in Hue’s cultural treasures, the evening opens to you, providing a canvas upon which you can relax or choose to further explore the city’s captivating offerings. You may choose to unwind with a quiet evening or listen to your wild side and explore the city’s nightlife, Hue’s atmosphere promises a memorable night to all.

After breakfast and check out of your hotel, meet your private guide and driver for a three-hour drive to Hoi An via the stunningly Hai Van Pass. Also known as the “Cloudy Pass,” this winding mountain road overlooks the lush countryside, sandy beaches, the blue waters of the South China Sea, and the coastal city of Da Nang.

En route, you will pause in Danang to visit the Marble Mountain with its beautiful caves of worship and the Museum of Cham Sculpture’s collection of artifacts dating back to the seventh century.

Upon arriving in Hoi An, you’ll check in to your hotel and have the rest of the afternoon to unwind on the sandy shores of Cua Dai Beach.

Hoi An thrived as a bustling port city from the 16th to the 19th century, conducting trade with merchants from China, Japan, India, Indonesia, and Europe.

Today, the UNESCO World Heritage Old Quarter of Hoi An preserves the city’s past with ornate pagodas, antique trading houses, and historic tile-roofed shops. These have been transformed into art galleries, boutique restaurants, bars, and cafes.

Hoi An is renowned for its architectural fusion of Chinese, Japanese, Vietnamese, and European styles, offering a rich cultural tapestry. Surrounding the city are scenic countryside landscapes with traditional farming and fishing, as well as sandy beaches featuring modern seaside resorts.

Begin your day with a morning market tour, sourcing a variety of fresh ingredients for your upcoming cooking class later in the afternoon. Accompanied by your guide and driver, you’ll embark on a journey to the bustling Hoi An local market, where a myriad of sights, sounds, and aromas await. Take a leisurely stroll through the market’s vibrant aisles, engaging with local vendors and selecting the finest produce for your culinary adventure that awaits. Though some may find the markets overwhelming, when looking for fresh food for a good price the market is my favorite place to visit. The immense amount of variety offered ensures that I can find everything that I need.

Following your market escapade, head to Cam Thanh village, making a pit stop at the enchanting Bay Mau Water Palm Forest. Enjoy a brief riverside walk in this quaint fishing hamlet before hopping onto a traditional Coracle bamboo boat for a scenic cruise along a charming canal with local fishermen.

Next, continue to Tra Que herbs and vegetables village, where a farmer’s family awaits to greet you. Don traditional farmer attire and explore the nearby farming land with authentic tools. Engage in a cooking class at a local home where you will have the pleasure and experience of preparing and enjoying your own traditional meal. This fascinating culinary experience concludes with a soothing foot soak of local herbs and a foot massage.

Cap off the day with an afternoon exploration of Hoi An’s UNESCO-recognized ancient town. Visit iconic landmarks such as the Japanese Bridge, a Sino-Vietnamese merchant house, a Chinese Temple, Hoian Central Market, and the Culture Museum. Conclude this splendid day trip by returning back to your hotel.

After breakfast, we’ll pick you up and transfer you to the airport for your flight to Ho Chi Minh City. Upon your arrival, we’ll ensure a smooth transfer to your hotel, allowing you to spend the evening immersing yourself in the bustling atmosphere of Saigon.

Ho Chi Minh City is a city that never sleeps, offering a plethora of excellent restaurants and bars catering to all tastes. From street food vendors to the rooftop bar at the Rex Hotel, where international correspondents once covered the Vietnam War, you’ll find an array of dining and entertainment options. Whatever your interests, don’t hesitate to ask your guide for personalized recommendations.

After enjoying your breakfast, your private guide will meet accompany you on a drive to Cu Chi, a quaint community located 60km northwest of Ho Chi Minh City. Cu Chi is renowned for its extensive network of tunnels, which served as a strategic hideout and infiltration route for the Viet Cong during the latter stages of the Vietnam War.

Upon arrival, you’ll have the opportunity to watch a brief introductory video from the era before delving into the tunnels themselves, widely recognized as one of the world’s most significant battlegrounds. This hidden labyrinth of Viet Cong tunnels spans “hundreds of miles” in total length, featuring living quarters, storage facilities, makeshift hospitals, kitchens, and more. While some sections of the tunnels remain narrow as originally constructed, others have been widened to accommodate tourists like yourself, offering you the chance to explore a portion of this remarkable system.

After exploring the Tunnels, you’ll return to the city, where you’ll enjoy a delicious lunch at a local restaurant.

In the afternoon you will embark on a journey to discover some of Ho Chi Minh City’s most iconic landmarks. You will begin with the Reunification Palace, a monumental witness to the culmination of the intense Vietnam War in 1975, that is now transformed into a museum and official reception hall.

Next, visit the Notre Dame Cathedral and the colonial-styled Central Post Office. The War Remnants Museum offers fascinating insights into the Vietnamese struggle for independence, freedom, and peace during the Vietnam War, with exhibits showcasing weapons, documents, and photographs – a place to also learn of the locals’ perspective of the War.

Conclude your day with a visit to Ben Thanh Market, an iconic symbol of the city. Pulsating with the energy of commerce and cultural vibrancy, where the rhythmic bargaining and the aromas of street food intertwine, Ben Thanh Market creates a bustling concerto of sights and scents that encapsulates the essence of Vietnamese urban life. The Ben Thanh market provides a perfect opportunity to purchase souvenirs, practice your bargaining skills, or simply just leisurely scroll and gaze at what is offered. Enjoy free time here to explore at your own pace before being transferred back to your hotel.

Ben Tre is one of the most captivating areas of the Mekong Delta. This region offers the feeling of being transported to a serene backwater, allowing tourists to explore a glimpse into untouched natural landscapes. Here you can experience the daily lives of the locals, discover beautiful canals, and traditional activities

After breakfast, your private guide and driver will pick you up in Ho Chi Minh City in a private vehicle where your journey will begin. You will travel onto winding, beautiful country roads to Ben Tre Town in the Mekong Delta. This area is renowned for its vast rice fields, numerous waterways, and breathtaking landscapes. Known to locals as the ‘rice bowl’ of Vietnam, this region produces the majority of Vietnam’s fruit, rice, sugar cane, and coconuts.

After a scenic t two-hour drive through the lush farming land, you will arrive in Ben Tre. From here you will set out on a motorized boat trip through narrow channels winding through the coconut forest. As you navigate through these waterways, you will stop at local cottage industries along the way to observe how the local people make bricks and weave sleeping mats by hand. You will have the opportunity to hear from locals and learn about their intricate processes that are handed down through generations.

Take a leisure walk along the village lanes, where you will visit the local homes to try fresh fruits, taste delicious honey tea while enjoying a local Tai Tu music show. Continue your visit with to another workshop where the local delicacy of coconut candy is produced, and a wide range of coconut husk and fiber products are skillfully handcrafted. This visit provides you with a deeper understanding and appreciation for the resourcefulness of the locals of this region.

Your journey continues with a serene sampan gliding through palm-fringed back canals, gliding peacefully along the hidden waterways surrounded by an immense variety of tropical plants. The quiet, rural setting is a welcome and restorative retreat to the frenetic buzz of HCM City which seems far, far away. Navigating these quiet canals is sure to have you immersed in the beauty of the lush greenery.

Enjoy a ride on a Motor Cart (xe lôi) as you pass through local hamlets, rice fields, coconut groves, and lush orchard farms where you will have the chance to meet and chat with locals.

After concluding your day of sightseeing your guide will take you to a riverside restaurant for lunch with local specialties. Once you have finished you will return to the pier and drive back to Ho Chi Minh City.

In the evening you can explore the night market to discover the authentic local cuisine. You will spend the night in Ho Chi Minh City providing you with the chance to reflect on your experiences at the Mekong Delt

Your last day in Vietnam grants you free time in the morning, allowing you to savor the city’s atmosphere until your private car arrives to transfer you to the airport for your onward journey.

This marks the end of your Flavor of Vietnam adventure with Asia Tour Advisor. We extend our heartfelt thanks for joining us on this incredible journey to explore the wonders of Vietnam. Farewell, and we hope to welcome you back soon. Should you desire more exploration of our country, consider our Vietnam tours, which offer a wide range of choices to suit your preferences.

Note: Asia Tour Advisor can also customize additional trips to meet your specific expectations if the above itinerary does not fully align with your desires.