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Opinion Of Masson On 7 Days In Ho Chi Minh City - Da Nang - Hanoi

Day 1: Arrival in Ho Chi Minh City - Start of 7 days Ho Chi Minh - Da Nang - Hanoi

My 7 days Ho Chi Minh - Da Nang - Hanoi adventure was organized by Autour Asia Vietnam travel agency, offering a complete immersion in the country's cultural and natural richness.

Upon my arrival in Ho Chi Minh City, formerly Saigon, I was immediately immersed in the bustle of this dynamic metropolis. The tree-lined avenues, colonial buildings, and bustling markets bore witness to the city's rich history and culture. My first stop was Ben Thanh Market, the true heart of Ho Chi Minh City. Colorful stalls overflowed with local products: spices, imported fruits, textiles, and handicrafts.

The evening continues with a stroll along the Saigon River, where the twinkling lights of the skyscrapers reflect on the water, creating a mesmerizing spectacle. The first day of the 7 days Ho Chi Minh City - Da Nang - Hanoi trip allowed me to immerse myself in Vietnamese urban life, combining history and modernity.

Day 2: Cu Chi Tunnels - Mekong Delta excursion

The second day of my 7 Days Ho Chi Minh - Da Nang - Hanoi journey took me to the famous Cu Chi Tunnels, located about 70 kilometers from the city. This underground network, used by Vietnamese fighters during the war, stretches over 200 kilometers. Crawling through these narrow passages, I felt deep admiration for the resilience and ingenuity of the Vietnamese people.

In the afternoon, I explored the Mekong Delta, specifically the city of My Tho, a fertile region often called the "rice bowl" of Vietnam. A sampan cruise allowed me to navigate through winding canals lined with palm trees and stilted villages. The floating markets, where vendors sell fruits, vegetables, and other goods from their boats, created a vibrant and authentic scene.

This immersion into Vietnamese rural life was incredibly enriching, giving me a deeper understanding of the Mekong River’s significance in local culture and economy. Tasting regional delicacies, such as grilled fish wrapped in banana leaves, added a flavorful touch to this unforgettable day in my Vietnam itinerary.

Day 3: Flight to Da Nang - Explore mountains

The third day of my Ho Chi Minh Da Nang Hanoi 7 days journey began with an early morning flight to Da Nang, a coastal city in central Vietnam. Upon arrival, I headed to the Marble Mountains, a cluster of five limestone hills named after the five elements: metal, wood, water, fire, and earth. These mountains are home to caves, pagodas, and breathtaking panoramic views of the region.

Climbing the steps to the summit, I discovered Buddhist sanctuaries nestled within natural caverns, reflecting the deep spirituality present throughout Vietnam. The delicate sculptures and altars adorned with flowers and incense created a serene atmosphere, perfect for meditation.

In the afternoon, I explored the Son Tra Peninsula, also known as Monkey Mountain. This natural reserve is famous for its biodiversity and pristine beaches. While trekking through the forest trails, I was fortunate to spot red-shanked douc langurs, a rare and endangered species.

The highlight of this excursion was visiting the Linh Ung Pagoda, dominated by a giant statue of the Goddess of Mercy, offering a spectacular view of the East Sea.

Day 4: Ba Na Hills - Visit Golden Bridge

The fourth day of my 7 days Ho Chi Minh - Da Nang - Hanoi tour was dedicated to exploring Ba Na Hills, a mountain resort located about 45 minutes from Da Nang. This destination is famous for its cool climate, picturesque landscapes, and unique attractions.

Upon arrival, I took the Ba Na Hills cable car, recognized as one of the longest in the world. The ride provided breathtaking panoramic views of lush forests and surrounding mountains — an unforgettable experience.

At the summit, I was greeted by the renowned Golden Bridge, a 150-meter-long pedestrian walkway supported by two giant hands seemingly emerging from the mountain. This striking structure offers a spectacular view of the green hills and has become an architectural icon of Vietnam.

I also explored the French Village, a medieval-style area with cobblestone streets, Gothic-style buildings, and charming cafés. While its authenticity may be debated, the lively atmosphere provided a delightful European escape in Central Vietnam.

Day 5: Flight to Hanoi - City tour

The fifth day marked the transition from the vibrant city of Da Nang to the historic capital, Hanoi. After a morning flight of about an hour and a half, I landed in Hanoi, ready to explore the cultural treasures of this ancient city.

My first stop was the Old Quarter, a maze of 36 bustling streets, each dedicated to a specific trade or craft. The colorful shop fronts, street vendors, and French colonial architecture created a unique atmosphere, reflecting the city’s rich heritage.

As I wandered, I came across Hoan Kiem Lake, a peaceful oasis in the heart of the city. According to legend, a giant turtle once returned a magical sword to King Le Loi here, symbolizing Vietnam’s independence. The Ngoc Son Temple, situated on an island in the lake, is accessible via an iconic red bridge and offers a serene spiritual retreat.

The evening ended with a water puppet show, a traditional Vietnamese art form. Hidden behind a screen, skilled puppeteers manipulated wooden puppets over water, narrating folklore stories accompanied by traditional music.

This first day in Hanoi provided a deep immersion into Vietnamese culture and history, making my 7 days Ho Chi Minh - Da Nang - Hanoi trip even more enriching.

Day 6: Halong Bay 1 day cruise

Halong Bay was a must-visit destination on my 7 days Ho Chi Minh - Da Nang - Hanoi journey, as it is a UNESCO World Heritage Site. After a three-hour drive from Hanoi, I boarded a traditional wooden boat, ready to explore this breathtaking seascape.

Halong Bay is renowned for its thousands of limestone karst formations rising from emerald waters. Each islet, with its unique shape, carries a legendary tale. The cruise allowed me to admire these natural wonders from different perspectives, offering countless stunning photo opportunities.

One of the highlights was the visit to Sung Sot Cave, one of the largest and most impressive caves in the bay. Its stalactites and stalagmites, illuminated by soft lighting, created a mystical atmosphere.

In the afternoon, a kayaking session provided an intimate experience of the bay, allowing me to paddle through hidden lagoons and natural arches. The tranquility of the surroundings, interrupted only by the sound of my paddles, was incredibly soothing.

As the evening set in, I enjoyed a fresh seafood dinner on the boat while watching the sunset over the bay. The shifting colors of the sky reflected on the water, creating an unforgettable spectacle.

Day 7: Departure from Hanoi - End of 7 days Ho Chi Minh - Da Nang - Hanoi

The final day of my 7 days Ho Chi Minh - Da Nang - Hanoi itinerary was dedicated to one last exploration of Hanoi before my departure. After an early breakfast, I took advantage of the remaining hours to visit a few iconic sites I had yet to discover.

My final stop was the Temple of Literature, a site rich in history and culture. Founded in 1070, this temple dedicated to Confucius once served as Vietnam’s first university. Strolling through its courtyards, I was captivated by the traditional architecture and the stone steles engraved with the names of past imperial exam laureates. This serene sanctuary provided a peaceful retreat from the city’s hustle and bustle.

This 7 days Ho Chi Minh - Da Nang - Hanoi journey was an unforgettable adventure that allowed me to fully immerse myself in Vietnam’s incredible diversity. I highly recommend this itinerary of my Vietnam Travel Agency to anyone looking to explore Vietnam in all its beauty.