Welcome to the vibrant capital city of Vietnam, Hanoi! Upon arrival, immerse yourself in the bustling streets, filled with a mix of French colonial architecture, ancient temples, and street vendors. Take a leisurely walk around Hoan Kiem Lake, visit the historic Ho Chi Minh Mausoleum, and savor a bowl of delicious pho, Vietnam's iconic noodle soup.
Spend the day exploring Hanoi's cultural highlights. Visit the Temple of Literature, the country's oldest university, and admire its traditional Vietnamese architecture. Wander through the narrow lanes of the charming Old Quarter, where each street specializes in a specific trade. Don't forget to try the famous egg coffee at one of the city's traditional coffee shops.
Day 3: Ha Long Bay Cruise
Embark on a magical cruise through the UNESCO World Heritage Site of Ha Long Bay. Marvel at the limestone karsts jutting out of the emerald waters, explore hidden caves, and enjoy a fresh seafood lunch onboard. Spend the night on the boat, stargazing from the deck and enjoying the tranquility of the bay.
Day 4: Hoi An Ancient Town
Fly to Hoi An, a picturesque town renowned for its well-preserved ancient architecture. Take a stroll through the enchanting streets lined with lanterns, visit the Japanese Covered Bridge, and explore the bustling Central Market. In the evening, soak in the romantic ambiance and enjoy a lantern-lit boat ride along the Thu Bon River.
Day 5: My Son Sanctuary and Countryside
Embark on a half-day excursion to the My Son Sanctuary, a UNESCO World Heritage Site that showcases the ancient Cham civilization. Admire the intricate ruins and learn about the history of this archaeological site. In the afternoon, take a bicycle or motorbike ride through the peaceful countryside, visiting local villages and rice fields.
Day 6: Hue Imperial City
Travel to Hue, the former capital of Vietnam. Explore the UNESCO-listed Hue Imperial City, home to palaces, temples, and the Forbidden Purple City. Discover the grandeur of the Nguyen Dynasty as you stroll through the Imperial Enclosure and visit the iconic Thien Mu Pagoda, perched on the banks of the Perfume River.
Day 7: Da Nang and Ba Na Hills
Visit the coastal city of Da Nang and take a cable car ride to the stunning Ba Na Hills. Enjoy panoramic views of the surrounding mountains, explore the French-inspired village, and visit the famous Golden Bridge, a unique architectural masterpiece. End the day with a relaxing swim at My Khe Beach, one of Vietnam's most beautiful beaches.
Day 8: Ho Chi Minh City (Saigon)
Fly to Ho Chi Minh City, formerly known as Saigon. Dive into the city's vibrant energy as you visit landmarks such as the Notre-Dame Cathedral, the Central Post Office, and the historic Reunification Palace. Explore the bustling Ben Thanh Market and indulge in delicious street food.
Day 9: Cu Chi Tunnels and Mekong Delta
Embark on a day trip to the Cu Chi Tunnels, a vast underground network used by the Vietnamese during the Vietnam War. Learn about the country's history and crawl through the narrow tunnels. In the afternoon, cruise along the Mekong Delta, visiting floating markets, lush fruit orchards, and rural villages.