Welcome to Hanoi, Vietnam’s captivating ancient capital. After landing, collect your luggage and head to the arrival hall, where our team member will greet you and assist with transportation to your hotel. (Standard check-in is 3:00 pm.)

Hanoi is a city of history and flavor, dating back to the third century BCE. A driver will take you on a roughly one-hour journey to your hotel in the vibrant Old Quarter, the perfect base for exploring the city.

Spend the afternoon wandering the intricate streets on foot or in a traditional three-wheeled cyclo. For dinner, savor the city’s famous bun cha (grilled pork with rice noodles and dipping sauce) at Bun Cha Huong Lien, or enjoy a cocktail with panoramic views of Tay Ho (West Lake) and the skyline from the rooftop bar at the Pan Pacific Hotel.

Overnight in Hanoi

Start your day early with a private, full-day tour of Hanoi’s historic landmarks. Begin at the Temple of Literature, Vietnam's first national university, established in the 11th century. Next, visit the Ho Chi Minh Mausoleum, the resting place of the revolutionary leader “Uncle Ho,” who passed away in 1969. Other key sites include the 11th-century One Pillar Pagoda, a Buddhist temple known for its unique lotus-flower design, perched atop a stone pillar emerging from a pond. Continue to the Tran Quoc Pagoda, the oldest Buddhist shrine in Hanoi, dating back to the sixth century, during the reign of Ly Nam De. Enjoy lunch at a traditional Vietnamese restaurant before returning to your hotel.

Spend the rest of the day exploring the Old Quarter, especially Hang Be Market, a centuries-old commercial center where locals shop for fresh produce, meats, seafood, and more. The market is also home to many vendors offering prepared foods, so be sure to bring your appetite and sample some of Vietnam’s famous street food.

Overnight in Hanoi

Start your day with breakfast at the hotel, then meet your driver for a 2.5-hour journey north to the marina at Ha Long Bay. Situated in the Gulf of Tonkin, this stunning bay is home to over 1,000 limestone islets that rise dramatically from the emerald waters, resembling the spine of a mythical creature (the name “Ha Long” translates to “descending dragon”). The breathtaking beauty of this region is unparalleled, earning it UNESCO World Heritage status.

You'll spend the night aboard a comfortable cruise ship, exploring this natural wonder. After settling into your cabin, join a cooking class led by the onboard chef, where you'll learn how to prepare traditional dishes like nem (Vietnamese fried spring rolls) and enjoy them for dinner. The rest of the evening is yours to relax, or you can take a small boat out for a spot of night fishing with the locals.

Please note that the cruise itinerary is subject to change without prior notice due to operational requirements, weather conditions, tidal levels, or local authority regulations. Any adjustments made by the cruise operator are intended to ensure the safety, comfort, and overall experience of all passengers while exploring Halong Bay.

Kindly be advised that your tour guide will accompany you to the cruise embarkation point but will not join the cruise itself. During your time on board, you will be under the care of a professional English-speaking Cruise Manager and the dedicated cruise staff, who will provide assistance, coordinate activities, and ensure a smooth and enjoyable experience throughout your journey in Halong Bay. They will be available to offer information about the destinations visited, organize onboard activities, and attend to your needs during the cruise.

Overnight on board the cruise

Start your day with an early morning Tai Chi session on the sundeck, a peaceful and rejuvenating way to welcome the day as the sun rises over the tranquil waters of Halong Bay. As the golden light illuminates the bay's spectacular limestone formations, enjoy the serene atmosphere and breathtaking views that make this UNESCO World Heritage Site so remarkable. Following the session, savor a light breakfast on board while the cruise continues its journey through a maze of towering limestone islands and hidden lagoons.

As the day unfolds, the vessel navigates deeper into the bay, offering opportunities to explore its natural wonders up close. Depending on the cruise itinerary, you may enjoy kayaking through calm emerald waters, discovering secluded coves, or visiting one of the bay's magnificent caves adorned with impressive stalactites and stalagmites. A delicious lunch is served on board as you cruise past some of the most picturesque scenery in the region, providing endless opportunities for photography and relaxation. In the afternoon, take advantage of the ship's facilities by unwinding on the sundeck, soaking in the panoramic views, or participating in the various activities organized by the cruise staff. As evening approaches, enjoy a delightful dinner featuring local and international specialties while surrounded by the peaceful beauty of the bay. Spend another comfortable night on board, immersed in the tranquility and charm of this extraordinary natural wonder.

Overnight on board the cruise

Begin your final morning in Halong Bay with a refreshing Tai Chi session on the sundeck as the bay awakens to another beautiful day. Breathe in the crisp morning air and take in the last views of the stunning limestone karsts rising from the emerald waters. Afterward, enjoy a light breakfast on board while the cruise slowly makes its way back toward the harbor. A farewell brunch is served as you continue sailing through the picturesque landscape, providing a perfect opportunity to relax and reflect on your memorable experience in one of Vietnam's most spectacular natural wonders.

Upon disembarkation, meet your driver and transfer by road to Noi Bai International Airport for your domestic flight to Saigon. Upon arrival in Vietnam's vibrant southern metropolis, you will be warmly welcomed by our local guide and driver before being transferred to your hotel in the city center. After check-in, the remainder of the evening is at your leisure. You may choose to relax after your journey, explore the lively streets surrounding your hotel, or sample some of Saigon's renowned culinary delights. 

Overnight stay in Saigon.

After breakfast, depart for an excursion to the famous Cu Chi Tunnels, a remarkable underground network that played a vital role during the Vietnam War. Originally built and expanded by Vietnamese resistance forces, these tunnels served as living quarters, supply routes, command centers, field hospitals, and kitchens. During your visit, you will have the opportunity to explore sections of the tunnel system and gain a deeper understanding of the resilience, ingenuity, and determination of those who lived and operated underground under extremely challenging conditions.

Following your visit, return to Ho Chi Minh City and enjoy lunch at the renowned Mandarine Saigon Restaurant. In the afternoon, embark on a city tour that includes the War Remnants Museum, where exhibits provide valuable insights into Vietnam's recent history. Continue to admire some of the city's most iconic colonial-era landmarks, including the historic Central Post Office and the magnificent Notre Dame Cathedral, both outstanding examples of French colonial architecture. The tour concludes with a visit to the bustling Ben Thanh Market, where you can browse local handicrafts, souvenirs, and regional specialties while capturing memorable photographs of this vibrant city landmark. Return to your hotel in the late afternoon and enjoy the remainder of the evening at leisure. 

Overnight in Saigon

After an early breakfast, depart for Ben Tre, a picturesque province in the heart of the Mekong Delta, renowned for its lush coconut groves and tranquil waterways. Upon arrival at Ham Luong Pier, board a motorized boat and begin a scenic cruise along the Ham Luong River, one of the main branches of the mighty Mekong River. As you glide past verdant islands and riverside communities, enjoy the refreshing breeze and immerse yourself in the peaceful atmosphere of this fertile region.

During the excursion, visit a variety of local family-run workshops where traditional craftsmanship has been preserved for generations. Discover how local artisans transform coconuts into a wide range of products, including activated charcoal, dried coconut goods, and handcrafted brooms made from coconut husks. You will also have the opportunity to observe the intricate process of creating beautiful handicrafts from coconut fiber, showcasing the ingenuity and skill of the local people.

Continue your exploration with a ride through the countryside aboard a traditional “Xe Lôi,” a local motorized rickshaw, offering an authentic glimpse into daily life in the Mekong Delta. The journey then takes you through narrow, palm-fringed canals, where you can enjoy a kayaking experience surrounded by lush tropical scenery. Depending on the time available, you may also choose to cycle through the village or take a leisurely walk along quiet country lanes, allowing you to appreciate the charm and simplicity of rural life at your own pace.

Later, visit a local fruit orchard and sample a selection of fresh seasonal tropical fruits while learning about the region's agricultural traditions. Relax as you board a small hand-rowed boat and gently drift through the serene natural canals, soaking in the beauty of the surrounding landscape and observing local life along the waterways. After this memorable experience, return to the pier by sampan and travel back to Ho Chi Minh City. The evening is at leisure before your overnight stay in Saigon.

Overnight in Saigon

Your unforgettable Vietnam adventure comes to a close today. After breakfast, enjoy a final moment to take in the sights of Saigon City, wander through the charming streets, revisit a favorite market, or pre-book our most recommended extension to Cambodia

At a scheduled time, you will be transferred to Saigon Airport for your return flight home. t. We wish you safe travels and look forward to helping you plan your next extraordinary adventure with Voyages Hub!

Note - The itinerary above may be modified without prior notice. The sequence of activities and scheduled day trips may vary due to operational factors, including weather and traffic conditions.