Vietnam: Land of Lantern Lights

Upon arrival at Ho Chi Minh City’s International Airport, you will be greeted by our friendly local representative and transferred to your hotel. After check-in and a bit of rest, begin your journey of this bustling southern capital.

Visit the War Remnants Museum, a deeply moving space that documents the resilience of Vietnam and its people. Through photographs and preserved artifacts, it offers an honest, thought-provoking look at the country’s modern history.

Next, explore the iconic Ben Thanh Market, a cultural and culinary treasure trove brimming with tantalizing street food, bustling markets and a myriad of shops offering local goods and souvenirs. From aromatic spices and handwoven baskets to vibrant street food stalls, it’s a lively showcase of everyday Vietnamese life — and a wonderful place to pick up local souvenirs.

Later, we will photo-stop at the historic Notre-Dame Cathedral and the Central Post Office, both striking examples of French colonial architecture, reflecting the city’s unique blend of East and West.

Return to your hotel for dinner and rest. Overnight stay in Ho Chi Minh City. 

After breakfast, set out for a memorable day in the Mekong Delta — often called the "rice bowl" of Vietnam as it produces over half of the country's rice. It is a lush, fertile region in southern Vietnam where the mighty Mekong River fans out into a maze of rivers, swamps, and islands before it meets the sea.

Begin your visit with a stop at a local workshop to see how traditional Vietnamese treats like rice paper, puffed rice, and coconut candy are made. Next, board a small rowing boat to glide along narrow canals lined with lush greenery and coconut palms. The calm waters and peaceful surroundings make for a truly relaxing experience.

Continue to explore a nearby island , where you will explore village life up close — passing orchards, schools, and rustic homes. You’ll also see local craftspeople weaving natural materials into useful and beautiful items like baskets and hats — a true display of sustainable ingenuity.

End the day with a calm boat ride across the mighty Mekong River, before returning to your hotel in Ho Chi Minh City.

Enjoy a local lunch before heading back to your hotel in Ho Chi Minh City, enriched by this immersive experience into southern Vietnam’s rural soul. 

Immerse yourself in the historical legacy of Cu Chi Tunnels, an intricate network of underground passageways that played a significant role in Vietnam's rich war history. Built by local fighters, the tunnels stretch over 250 km and include living quarters, kitchens, storage spaces, and even makeshift hospitals. As you walk through this labyrinth of tunnels, you can't help but be in awe of the resilience and determination of the Vietnamese people.

After this insightful visit and lunch, head to the airport for your short flight to Danang — a laid-back coastal city known for its beautiful beaches, gentle pace, and proximity to some of Vietnam’s most treasured cultural sites.

Upon arrival in Danang, you will be transferred to your hotel, check in and relax. 

This morning, set off to explore the tranquil Cam Thanh Coconut Village, nestled amidst lush mangroves and winding waterways. Often called the ‘Green Oasis’ of Hoi An, this peaceful spot offers a glimpse into traditional coastal life. Take a leisurely basket boat ride through the coconut-lined canals and enjoy the charm of the countryside at a relaxed pace.

Later, continue your journey to the ancient town of Hoi An, a UNESCO World Heritage Site and one of Vietnam’s most enchanting destinations. Immerse yourself in the bustling atmosphere as you stroll through the charming walking street, lined with ancient buildings steeped in history. 

As the day transitions into twilight, embark on a memorable boat ride along the river. As the sun sets, the gentle glow of lanterns illuminates the water, a timeless tradition that will leave you spellbound. Release your own lantern into the night sky, watching it dance and twinkle, carrying your wishes and dreams. 

After your visit, return to Danang for dinner and overnight stay.

Get ready for an exciting journey to Ba Na Hills, a place where time seems to stand still and reality merges with imagination. Ascend to the sky with the help of the magnificent Golden Bridge, which seems to be magically suspended by majestic hands reaching towards the heavens.

Explore the splendid French-inspired Le Jardin, where manicured gardens and lush vegetation provide a serene backdrop. Discover the serene Linh Ung pagoda with its magnificent 27-meter Buddha statue, radiating serenity and peace. Indulge in thrilling games at Fantasy Park.

Return to Da Nang, and check into your hotel.

After breakfast, check out and transfer to Danang Airport for your flight to Hanoi, Vietnam’s capital — a city where ancient traditions and modern life blend effortlessly.

Today, we’ll be visiting Ho Chi Minh Museum, dedicated to the life and legacy of the revolutionary leader Ho Chi Minh. It houses a vast collection of artifacts, documents, and photographs that chronicle Ho Chi Minh's journey from his early years to his pivotal role in Vietnam's struggle for independence.

Continue to the Temple of Literature, Vietnam’s first national university, originally built in 1070. This historic site is an ancient sanctuary of wisdom and knowledge, where the whispers of the past echo through the halls. Enjoy a serene walk by Hoan Kiem Lake and visit the nearby Ngoc Son Temple, where a sense of serenity envelopes you as you take in the beauty of nature.

If time and energy permits, you may also wish to experience two of Hanoi’s more unique and lively local spots. Train Street, a narrow lane flanked by houses and cafés, offers the surreal sight of trains passing just inches from doorsteps. If you are curious to explore Hanoi's vibrant evening scene, Beer Street (Ta Hien Street) in the Old Quarter comes alive after sunset. Or simply relax in the comfort of your hotel.

Enjoy a sumptuous breakfast at the hotel knowing that today will be a day of indescribable beauty and wonder as we set off for Ha Long Bay. At Tuan Chau Harbor, you are warmly welcomed aboard, with a refreshing welcome drink in hand, you embark on an unforgettable adventure. 

As the cruise sets sail, you find yourself surrounded by towering limestone islands emerging from the emerald waters, creating a landscape that seems almost otherworldly. Ha Long Bay, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, beckons you to explore its wonders. As we make our way to Lan Ha Bay, a tranquil extension of Ha Long's majesty, you have the choice of kayaking and swimming at the Tra Bau area where you can immerse yourself in the poetic beauty of the bay.

As the sun sets over the horizon, casting a golden glow upon the water, join in the festivities on Lan Ha Bay, capturing the mesmerizing sunset while enjoying the company of fellow travellers. You can also participate in the guided cooking classes to practice Vietnamese traditional dishes. 

Later, savor dinner on board, with the sea as your backdrop and the stars as your companions.

Leisure options abound throughout the evening, whether you choose to pamper yourself with spa treatments (at your own cost), try your hand at squid fishing, or unleash your inner diva with some karaoke. Retire to your comfortable cabin, where you can fall asleep to the gentle lullaby of the waves, completely immersed in the bliss of Ha Long Bay's enchantment.

Greet the morning with a Tai-chi session on the sundeck, refreshing your body and mind as the new day unfolds. Enjoy a light breakfast as the Cruise continues its sail, passing stunning karst towers.

We will then transfer to the small boat where you will have the opportunity to explore Dark and Bright Cave on a local bamboo boat. These caves are an excellent example of a frog-shaped cave, with the floor being below sea level and the ceiling being higher than sea level.Immerse yourself in the serenity of this picturesque location. It is here that you can truly appreciate the untouched beauty of nature, as if stepping into a scene from a fairytale.

After bidding farewell to the Cruise, head to Hanoi. Later, enjoy a cyclo ride through Hanoi’s Old Quarter — a fun and relaxing way to soak in the charm of its narrow streets, bustling shops, and colonial architecture. In the evening, delight in a traditional water puppet show, a uniquely Vietnamese art form that shares stories from rural life through music and puppetry. Overnight at hotel in Hanoi.

After breakfast, enjoy your final moments in Hanoi at leisure — whether it’s a quiet coffee, a stroll nearby, or simply soaking in the hotel’s peaceful ambience. For those interested in shopping, it’s the perfect moment to pick up some last-minute silk scarves, hand-crafted souvenirs, or Vietnamese coffee from the local markets.

You may opt for a late evening flight, which offers a bonus window to experience Hanoi's charm a little longer.

Later, you'll be transferred to the airport for your departure, taking along the warmth, flavors, and memories of Vietnam.

• 8 Nights accommodations in 4* premium category hotels in Hanoi, Ho Chi Minh, Danang and Deluxe cruise in Halong Bay on twin sharing basis (twin beds are subject to availability). We provide single sharing accommodation for a supplementary cost. In case interested, please let us know while making the booking itself. All rooms are base category.
• Please Note that the standard checkin time is 14:00 hrs (2PM). Early check-in is not guaranteed and is subject to hotel availability. For flights landing early morning, please let us know if you want to prebook early checkin. This is strongly recommened for travelers who donot wish to wait after an overnight flight
• 8 Breakfast, 8 Lunch and 7 Dinner as per the tour plan. Breakfast will be continental, Lunch & Dinner will be a mix of Indian, Vietnamese or International cuisine as available during sightseeing. *Please note that while we strive to offer variety, meal options are subject to timing, restaurant access, and the destination's facilities.
• Two Domestic flights within Vietnam - Ho Chi Minh City to Danang and Danang to Hanoi.
• Single Entry eVisa Fee for Vietnam 
• Cyclo Ride to explore the old quarter of Hanoi.
• Cable car to Bana Hill at Danang and Tai-chi session on the sundeck.
• Traditional Water Puppet Show in Hanoi.
• Entry tickets to monuments, villages and temples (mentioned in the itinerary)
• Halong Bay cruise. Local boat rides in Halong Bay for island hopping. 
• Experienced English speaking guide
• 1 litre of water per day per person
• International Travel Insurance upto 69 years (Supplement Fee applicable for 70+ age).
• Group pickup from Airport only in case flight is booked as per our suggested time. 
• Services of Travel Buddy experienced in taking care of elderly (45+ age group). We go along with all our group tours to ensure we provide the best traveling experience to all group members.
• Some of the sightseeing points might get closed on particular days and we reserve the right to change the itinerary. However, we will make sure everything is covered in best possible way.