Premium Journey Hanoi to Ho Chi Minh in Vietnam – 8 Days

Duration: 8 Days
Start/ End: Hanoi/Ho Chi Minh
Tour Type: Discovery and Experience
Tour Route: Hanoi – Halong Bay – Ha Noi – Hoi An – Ho Chi Minh
Tour Customizable: Definitely!
Guide: Local experienced English speaking guide
Transportation: Local transport with a skillful driver

Brief Itinerary

Day 1: Hanoi city tour
Day 2: Hanoi – Halong Bay
Day 3: Halong Bay – Hanoi
Day 4: Hanoi – Hoi An
Day 5: Hoi An city tour
Day 6: Hoi An – Ho Chi Minh
Day 7: Ho Chi Minh city tour
Day 8: Ho Chi Minh city tour

Detailed Itinerary

Day 1: Hanoi city tour

Hello! Welcome to Hanoi, Vietnam’s lively capital. Upon arrival, a representative will meet you at the airport and take you to your hotel. Your adventure officially begins with a meeting at 6 pm tonight, where you’ll meet your trip leader and fellow travelers. If you have some extra time, explore Hanoi on foot. Visit the colorful Old Quarter or the Vietnam National Fine Arts Museum. Tonight, join your leader for a welcome dinner at a beautifully decorated restaurant, experiencing authentic Vietnamese cuisine made with fresh local ingredients.

Day 2: Hanoi- Halong Bay

Leave Hanoi for Halong Bay, a stunning UNESCO World Heritage site. Spend the night on a unique Feature Stay boat, designed like a traditional junk-style boat but with modern comforts. Enjoy the breathtaking views as you sail among islands and limestone karsts. Have a seafood lunch onboard and explore Surprise Cave with your leader. In warmer months, you can swim at Ti Top Island Beach or join a kayaking tour. End the day with a candlelit seafood dinner on deck, followed by stargazing and storytelling.

Day 3: Halong Bay- Hanoi

Start your day with a peaceful breakfast and maybe join a Tai Chi session onboard before heading back to Hanoi. In the afternoon, prepare for a unique experience: a traditional Hat Xam performance. Originating from Northern Vietnam during the Tran Dynasty, this art form was historically enjoyed by working-class audiences until the late 1950s. Now rare, you’ll be treated to an exclusive show in a private club house, where artists still sing acoustically. The performance lasts about 60 minutes and may involve interaction with guests, so get ready to join in!

Day 4: Hanoi- Hoi An

This morning, join your leader for a half-day tour of Hanoi. Explore the city’s mix of tradition and modernity, visiting the Temple of Literature and the Hoa Lo Prison, known as the ‘Hanoi Hilton’. Enjoy a special lunch at KOTO cafe, supporting disadvantaged youth. In the afternoon, fly south to Danang, then drive to Hoi An, enjoying the scenic views. The rest of the day is yours to relax by the hotel pool or explore.

Day 5: Hoi An city tour

Embark on a walking tour of Hoi An’s Old Town with your leader. Explore the blend of tradition and cultural influences from historical traders. Wander pagoda-lined streets, visit a Chinese assembly hall, cross the Japanese Covered Bridge, explore a historic trader’s house, and check out a local museum. Discover pottery villages dating back centuries. Try Vietnam’s famous coffee at a local cafe recommended by your leader. Enjoy traditional egg coffee or refreshing iced coconut coffee. The afternoon is yours to explore at your leisure.

Day 6: Hoi An – Ho Chi Minh

Enjoy the morning exploring Hoi An and its surroundings. Browse the market for silk or collect garments from tailors. Rent a bicycle and ride to a nearby beach. Your leader can suggest great places to eat and drink. In the afternoon, return to Danang and fly to Ho Chi Minh City. Check into your hotel and enjoy a free evening. Visit the bustling food stalls at Cho Ben Thanh market for Pho and Bun mam.

Day 7: Ho Chi Minh city tour

Venture out of the city to the nearby Cu Chi Tunnels, an extensive underground network used by the Viet Minh and Viet Cong. Explore a widened section of the tunnels with your leader, imagining life underground. Learn how they served as hospitals, accommodation, and military bases. Return to Ho Chi Minh City for a tour, visiting the Reunification Palace and War Remnants Museum. In the evening, join your fellow travelers for a final dinner at a local restaurant recommended by your leader.

Day 8: Ho Chi Minh city tour

Your adventure wraps up after breakfast today. If you want to extend your stay in Ho Chi Minh City, we can arrange extra accommodation for you, depending on availability.