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Vietnam Cultural Discovery Tour 10 Days 9 Nights

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Tour details

Tour code:VN10D-1
Duration:10 days 9 nights
Starts in:Hanoi
Ends in:Ho Chi Minh City
Places to visit:Hanoi - Ninh Binh - Trang An - Bai Dinh Pagoda - Halong Bay - Surprise cave - Titov Island - Hanoi - Da Nang - Hoi An - Saigon (HCM city) - Ben Tre - Ho Chi Minh city
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Starting point +11 destinazioni End point
HanoiHo Chi Minh city

Trip highlights

Itinerary Expand allCollapse all

Day 1
Hanoi Arrival – First Visit (D)
Hanoi Arrival – First Visit (D)
Upon your arrival at Hanoi Airport, our driver will be delighted to welcome you and drive you to your hotel, which is approximately 35 km away, roughly a 45-minute drive. After a long flight, it's crucial to take some time to rest and adjust to the time difference.

At 5:00 PM, embark on a combo: a 60-minute full Vietnamese body massage with dinner included. This revitalizing massage incorporates ancient techniques that target pressure points and invigorating movements, accompanied by aromatherapy massage oils to warm the muscles, relax the body, and enhance your overall well-being and physical flexibility.
Afterward, return to your hotel following a light dinner.

Overnight in Hanoi.
Day 2
Hanoi - City Tour (B; L)
Hanoi - City Tour (B; L)

After breakfast, your day kicks off with a visit to the square in front of the Ho Chi Minh Mausoleum, honoring the nation's founder. Your guide will narrate the country's independence history before you capture memories in photos.
Next, head to the Defense Pagoda by West Lake, ending your morning with an insightful trip to the Hanoi Ethnography Museum, showcasing Vietnam's diverse ethnic cultures.
Lunch awaits at a local eatery.
In the afternoon, a fascinating stroll through the Hanoi Old Quarter awaits you. Start with the Long Bien Bridge - Paul Doumer Bridge (Trần Nhật Duật Street side) and continue to Cao Thắng Street, famous for its traditional spices. Then, explore the Đồng Xuân Market, the largest market in Hanoi, and soak in the lively atmosphere of Hàng Mã Street, known for its decorative items, Chinese toys, and colorful lanterns.
Continue your exploration through Lương Văn Can, Lãn Ông, and Hang Buồm streets, taking the time to visit the Bạch Mã Temple (76 Hang Buồm Street), the oldest temple in Hanoi. Take a well-deserved break at Café Market (Hanoi Coffee Station, 44 Hang Bè Street or another café boutique) to enjoy a complimentary coffee.
Capture the vibrant atmosphere by Hoan Kiem Lake before attending a mesmerizing Hanoi water puppet show in the evening.
Dinner is on your own, followed by an overnight stay at the hotel in Hanoi

Day 3
Hanoi - Ninh Binh - Trang An - Bai Dinh Pagoda (B; L)
Hanoi - Ninh Binh - Trang An - Bai Dinh Pagoda (B; L)

Your day will begin with an 8am hotel pick-up and transfer to the picturesque area of Ninh Binh, which boasts a stunning landscape of hundreds of limestone mountains nestled among lush rice fields and gentle rivers that have carved out spectacular and enchanting caves over millions of years.

Upon arrival in Trang An, you will embark on a delightful two-hour sampan cruise through various waterways, where you can marvel at the stunning rural scenery of limestone cliffs. Trang An Grottoes is similar to Tam Coc, but with many more caves to explore. Unfortunately, some of the caves have been widened to allow boats to pass through, compromising their natural beauty.

After the cruise, enjoy a delicious lunch at a nearby local restaurant before continuing on to explore the majestic Bai Dinh Pagoda. Not only is this the largest pagoda in Vietnam, but it is also the largest in Southeast Asia. Situated on a hill at the back, with views overlooking a river at the front, its prime location has made it one of Ninh Binh's most impressive tourist attractions.

Finally, you will be transported to your hotel for the evening, with dinner on your own.

Overnight in Ninh Binh (or in a resort near Bai Dinh Pagoda)

Day 4
Ninh Binh - Halong Bay - Surprise Cave (B; L; D)
Ninh Binh - Halong Bay - Surprise Cave (B; L; D)

Your day will begin with an 8am hotel pick-up and transfer to Halong Bay, a UNESCO World Heritage Site located in Quảng Ninh Province, Vietnam. Translating to "descending dragon" in Vietnamese, this stunning destination is a popular travel spot.

Upon arrival at Tuan Chau Port around 11:45am to 12:00pm, you will board our boat and receive a welcome drink and safety instructions during a cruise briefing. You will also be treated to a delicious deluxe Vietnamese Set Menu Lunch, with the option to book a massage service in advance to enjoy throughout the cruise.

As we cruise through the bay, you will have the opportunity to take in the most beautiful and peaceful areas, such as the Incense Burner, Dog Stone Islet, Fighting Cock, and Finger Islet. Our next stop is the breathtaking Surprise Cave (Hang Sửng Sốt), one of the largest and most stunning grottoes in Halong Bay. To reach the mouth of the cave, we will climb approximately a hundred stone steps.

After exploring the Surprise Cave, we will sail for about 30 minutes to anchor overnight. During this time, guests can participate in a Fruit and Vegetable Carving Lesson led by our Head Chef. Our chef will demonstrate fruit and vegetable carving and teach guests how to decorate and make some traditional Vietnamese food.

A dinner of fresh seafood will be served in the evening, followed by a range of activities. Board games like cards or Parcheesi will be available, as well as massage services throughout the cruise. Everyone can also try their luck at squid fishing on the boat with the help of the crew.

Overnight on boat.

Day 5
Halong Bay - Hanoi (B; L) (160km – 4h00)
Halong Bay - Hanoi (B; L) (160km – 4h00)

Should guests choose to wake up early at 6:30 am, they can enjoy a light breakfast and hot drinks in the dining room. However, it is not mandatory, and guests who prefer to sleep in can do so. For those interested, a 30-minute Tai Chi session will be held on the sundeck at 6:45 am.

After the session, guests will be taken by tender to Titov Island. There, they can choose to hike for approximately one hour to the peak to get a breathtaking 360-degree view of the Bay. An expansive viewing deck is also available halfway up the island for guests who do not wish to climb. After the climb, guests can unwind on the beach or take a swim.

Once guests return to the boat, they will have 30 minutes to freshen up and pack their belongings. All guests are requested to collect their belongings from the cabins and leave their heavy luggage outside. Our staff will transfer the luggage directly to the pier. A full breakfast will be served in the dining room, and guests can settle their bills after breakfast. As the boat approaches the pier, guests can relax on the sundeck or in the dining room and enjoy the beautiful bay scenery.

Please note that the itinerary is subject to change due to weather conditions, tide levels, and operational conditions, and the times provided are approximate and may vary.

At 12:00 PM, the cruise experience will end, and guests will be transferred to Hanoi.

In the afternoon, guests will arrive in Hanoi and proceed to check-in at their hotel.

Dinner will be on their own.

Overnight in Hanoi.

Day 6
Hanoi - Da Nang | By Plane - Hoi An (B)
Hanoi - Da Nang | By Plane - Hoi An (B)

After breakfast, you will be transferred to the airport to catch your morning flight to Da Nang city. Upon arrival, a driver will pick you up at the airport and take you to Hoi An. En route, you will make a stop at Non Nuoc Marble village, located about 8km southeast of Da Nang City, which is also known as "Mountain and Water" in Vietnamese.

Next, you will continue your journey to the ancient town of Hoi An. This town was once an important trading port during the 17th and 18th centuries, and has been officially listed as a World Heritage site. After arriving, you will check into your hotel and have free time to explore the ancient town.

Meals on your own.

Overnight in Hoi An.

Day 7
Hoi An Discovery - Ecotour (B; L; D)
Hoi An Discovery - Ecotour (B; L; D)

What a wonderful itinerary! You will have the opportunity to experience some of the most famous and beautiful sights in Hoi An, while also venturing out into the peaceful countryside for a day of cycling and cultural immersion.

The morning walk through the ancient town sounds like a great way to start the day, with visits to some of the most significant historical and cultural sites.

The Quan Cong temple and Phuc Kien pagoda will offer insight into the Chinese influence in Hoi An, while the Japanese Bridge and Tan Ky ancient house will showcase the town's diverse heritage.

Lunch at a local restaurant is a perfect opportunity to refuel before embarking on an afternoon of cycling through the picturesque countryside. It will be refreshing to get away from the busy city and enjoy some peaceful time in nature. The Van Lang fisherman village and Bay Mau water coconut forest sound like stunning destinations, full of history and natural beauty.

Meeting Mr. Han and his family will be an incredible opportunity to learn about the local culture and traditional way of life. The basket boat tour and foot bath with medicinal herbs are unique experiences that will surely be remembered for years to come. And of course, dinner with a local family is an excellent way to sample traditional Vietnamese cuisine and connect with the local community.

Overall, this itinerary offers a great balance of history, culture, nature, and food, making it an unforgettable experience for anyone visiting Hoi An.

Overnight in Hoi An.

Day 8
Hoi An - Da Nang - Saigon (Ho Chi Minh City) | By Plane (B; L)
Hoi An - Da Nang - Saigon (Ho Chi Minh City) | By Plane (B; L)

Following an early breakfast, you will be transferred to Da Nang Airport for your morning flight to Ho Chi Minh City. This bustling metropolis was once known as Saigon, serving as the capital of the French colony of Cochin-China and later the independent republic of South Vietnam from 1955-75. On 2 July 1976, Saigon was officially renamed Ho Chi Minh City, in honor of the Vietnamese communist revolutionary leader who served as prime minister (1945-1955) and president (1945-1969) of the Democratic Republic of Vietnam (North Vietnam).

Upon arrival, you will embark on a tour of the city. First, you will visit the Opera House, which was constructed in 1900 and influenced by the architecture of the Opera Garnier in Paris. The facade of the opera is a replica of the Petit Palais in Paris. You will also visit Notre-Dame Cathedral, a renowned central Saigon Cathedral erected in 1877 with materials imported from France, and the Post Office designed by Gustave Eiffel.

After lunch at a local restaurant, you will explore the Chinese quarter "Cho Lon" and its remarkable Binh Tay market. The day will conclude with a visit to a lacquer ware factory, where you will have the opportunity to witness the creation of traditional Vietnamese lacquer ware.

Following the tour, you will return to your hotel for some leisure time, with dinner on your own.

Overnight in Saigon (HCM city).

Day 9
Ho Chi Minh City - Ben Tre (Mekong) - HCM City (B; L) (110 Km – 2h30)
Ho Chi Minh City - Ben Tre (Mekong) - HCM City (B; L) (110 Km – 2h30)

Embark on an immersive adventure into traditional Vietnamese life starting at 8:00 am, with a pickup from your hotel in Ben Tre, a quaint town situated in the Mekong Delta region renowned for its stunning natural landscapes and distinct local culture.

At 10:30 am, you will arrive at Hàm Luông pier in Ben Tre town and board a boat for a picturesque cruise on the Ben Tre River, one of the Mekong Delta's tributaries. Along the journey, witness the lively activities taking place along the river, such as fishing and water transfer, which are integral parts of the local people's daily routine.

Experience the traditional brick-making process by visiting the masonry and observing how bricks are printed and fired. Also, explore a coconut processing workshop located along the canal and visit a workshop where mats are made, and enjoy some tea and fruit.

Take a motor cart (xe lôi) or a bicycle ride through the lush green plains or rice fields, and witness the tropical culture of the peasants.

Savor a delicious lunch at the Hai Hồ family before taking a rowing boat to reach the pier and return to Ho Chi Minh City.

You will arrive in HCM City around 5:00 pm after a refreshing break.

Overnight in Ho Chi Minh city.

Day 10
Ho Chi Minh City - Departure (B)
Ho Chi Minh City - Departure (B)

Following your breakfast, you will have some leisure time before your scheduled airport transfer for your flight back home. Please note that meals during this time will be at your own discretion.

End of your 10 days Vietnam Tour Package !

Price includes

  • Accommodation in a double or twin room with daily breakfast
  • Overnight cruise on board a shared good-quality boat in Halong Bay (private boat upon request).
  • Private air-conditioned vehicle during all tours and transfers.
  • English-speaking guide during all tours.
  • Entrance fees for all visits as mentioned in the itinerary
  • Water puppet show in Hanoi.
  • Lunch or dinner as specified in the itinerary
  • Local private sampan cruise in Trang An, Hoi An, Hue, Mekong Delta.
  • Bicycle in Hoi An & Mekong Delta.
  • Water & cool towels
  • Government taxes & service charge.

Price excludes

  • International airfare and departure taxes
  • Drinks and meals not mentioned
  • Personal expenses such as laundry, telephone, drinks, tips… etc.
  • Personal travel insurance.
  • Vietnam Visa (If you are not exempt from the visa).

Notes

  • Domestic flights: We quote separately and can book for you without fees.
  • Surcharged for Gala dinner on 24th and 31st December if any
  • Surcharged for Public holidays (30/4-1/5, Lunar New Year)
  • The timing of check-in and check-out at the hotels: Check-in at 14:00, check-out at 12:00. (Early check-in/
  • late check-out is upon your request).
  • A single supplement is required if you are traveling alone.
  • The triple room is possible upon your request.

Traveller reviews

5.0
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W
Wilson
Wednesday, July 12, 2023 9:35 PM
5.0 Excellent
The entire trip was impeccably organized, leaving me with a clear understanding of what each day would entail. The majority of the food provided was exceptional, satisfying my culinary expectations. The guides accompanying us were not only knowledgeable but also had a delightful sense of humor and displayed genuine kindness. Engaging in the various activities provided us with both enjoyment and insight. Hanoi's rich historical background and abundance of excellent dining and shopping options made it a captivating destination. Ha Long Bay offered breathtaking beauty and a serene atmosphere, though it would be beneficial if the government took steps to address the water pollution and trash issue. However, my favorite place to explore was undoubtedly Ben Tre in Mekong delta, which offered fantastic opportunities and allowed us to immerse ourselves in local village life.
W
Westley
Wednesday, July 12, 2023 9:38 PM
5.0 Excellent
Our Vietnam Package Tour 10 Days was overall enjoyable, despite the unpredictable weather. Our tour guide, Mr. Tuan, played a significant role in making our experience exceptional. He was not only helpful and informative but also demonstrated thoughtfulness and care throughout our journey. His outstanding service deserves high praise and recognition.The breakfasts at the hotels exceeded our expectations, providing us with delicious meals to start our days. During the cruise trip, we were impressed by the excellent customer service we received, which further enhanced our experience.One of the highlights of the trip was the exhilarating motorbike ride. Feeling the breeze, breathing in the fresh air, and taking in the beautiful scenery added a special touch to our adventure.
AC
Annie Claire
Tuesday, April 16, 2024 8:48 AM
5.0 Excellent
I went on a Vietnam itinerary 10 days with a friend in January and February 2024. We truly appreciated the time Autour Asia dedicated to setting up our tailor-made trip. It took several weeks to finalize the complete program as we requested several changes to the proposed options, and all our wishes were accommodated. Ms. Selina, who managed our trip planning, was very patient and friendly throughout the process.Everything was extremely well-organized, and our guides in the country were excellent: friendly, humorous, and highly knowledgeable. Both the agency and the guides were quick to respond when we had questions or concerns. I would definitely choose Autour Asia again for another trip to Asia!
FR
Frederic R
Tuesday, April 16, 2024 8:49 AM
5.0 Excellent
We didn't want a typical 10 days in Vietnam, so Anna from Autour Asia did an excellent job of creating a tailor-made itinerary for us. We visited Tiger Island and enjoyed dinner at a homestay, where the atmosphere was exceptionally clean and the food was outstanding. Our group consisted of 10 people.The next day, we visited a local floating market and took a tour with a local tuk-tuk, which offered us a fantastic way to observe everyday life in the region. We concluded our trip in Ho Chi Minh City with the famous green path, which was an amazing experience.Our guide was extremely competent and spoke fluent English. Thanks to Autour Asia's exceptional organization, we had a fantastic trip!
AM
Ann Mansfield
Tuesday, April 16, 2024 8:49 AM
5.0 Excellent
We just completed our 10-day Vietnam itinerary and had a wonderful time with our guide, Huan. He was incredibly kind and funny, with excellent knowledge of the area. Huan was always punctual and very helpful throughout our trip. We highly recommend him and Autour Asia for anyone planning a trip to Vietnam.
ZH
Zhenzi H
Tuesday, April 16, 2024 8:49 AM
5.0 Excellent
This was my first time traveling on a 10-day Vietnam tour package, so I decided to find a local travel agency to help me plan my itinerary. I researched online and chose Autour Asia, with Ms. Tina as my travel consultant. She displayed patience and professionalism in helping me plan an unforgettable trip to Vietnam, providing me with many helpful tips along the way.I was assigned a friendly and knowledgeable tour guide, Giang, who shared much of Vietnam's history with me and introduced me to many delicious local foods. I had the opportunity to taste authentic Vietnamese cuisine and truly appreciate the culture.Thank you for such a wonderful experience! I hope to see you all again in the future!
SP
Somkuwar P
Monday, September 30, 2024 5:46 PM
5.0 Excellent
Our Vietnam itinerary 10 days was magical! From Hanoi’s bustling streets to the serene beauty of Ninh Binh and the stunning landscapes of Halong Bay, each moment brought us closer together.
NM
Noëlle M
Monday, September 30, 2024 5:48 PM
5.0 Excellent
We had an incredible time on our 10 days in vietnam! The Trang An cruise by sampan was serene, and Bai Dinh Pagoda was awe-inspiring. Halong Bay’s Surprise Cave and Titov Island took our breath away. Each experience added to our romance and created lasting memories we cherish.
RG
Rousse G
Monday, September 30, 2024 5:48 PM
5.0 Excellent
Our Vietnam travel itinerary 10 days was absolutely unforgettable! Starting in Hanoi, we explored the vibrant culture and then journeyed to Ninh Binh, where the Trang An cruise by sampan was a highlight. The majestic Bai Dinh Pagoda impressed us deeply. Halong Bay, with its stunning Surprise Cave and relaxing visit to Titov Island, was a dream come true. Finally, Hoi An's ancient charm, combined with the eco-tour and cycling through the countryside, added an extra layer of magic to our trip.
MB
Melanie B
Monday, September 30, 2024 5:49 PM
5.0 Excellent
Our romantic 10 days Vietnam tour package was nothing short of extraordinary! We began in Hanoi, where we soaked in the lively atmosphere before heading to Ninh Binh for a peaceful sampan cruise at Trang An. The grandeur of Bai Dinh Pagoda was awe-inspiring. Halong Bay was a highlight, especially exploring the breathtaking Surprise Cave and relaxing on Titov Island. After returning to Hanoi, we enjoyed the charm of Hoi An’s ancient town, cycling through the countryside and taking a basket boat cruise in Bay Mau water coconut forest. Ending our trip in Saigon and Ben Tre was the perfect finale, creating memories we'll cherish forever!
M
Meggie
Monday, February 10, 2025 11:12 AM
5.0 Excellent
This tour offers a mix of comfortable hotels, cruises, and boutique stays:Hanoi, Da Nang, Ho Chi Minh City (Saigon): 3-star to 5-star hotels in central locations.Halong Bay: Overnight cruise with scenic cabins, meals, and activities.Hoi An & Ninh Binh: Boutique hotels or eco-lodges for an authentic experience.💡 Tip: For a more luxurious experience, opt for 5-star hotels in cities and a premium cruise in Halong Bay.
G
Grâce
Monday, February 10, 2025 11:13 AM
5.0 Excellent
The budget depends on accommodation and inclusions:Budget package (3-star hotels, standard cruise): $1,200 - $1,800 per person.Mid-range package (4-star hotels, luxury cruise): $2,000 - $2,800 per person.Luxury package (5-star hotels, premium cruise, private tours): $3,000 - $4,500 per person.💡 Tip: Domestic flights (e.g., Hanoi to Da Nang, Da Nang to Ho Chi Minh City) are usually included in the tour package, but personal expenses and optional activities (such as cooking classes in Hoi An or boat rides in Ben Tre) are extra.
A
Aure
Monday, February 10, 2025 11:14 AM
5.0 Excellent
Vietnam is known for its affordable yet delicious food options:Street food/local restaurants: $3 - $6 per meal (Pho, Banh Mi, Bun Cha).Mid-range restaurants: $10 - $20 per meal.Fine dining (luxury restaurants/hotel meals): $25 - $50 per meal.Included meals: Full board on Halong Bay cruise, breakfast at hotels.💡 Tip: Try local specialties in each region, such as Bun Bo Hue in Central Vietnam and fresh seafood in Halong Bay. Vegetarian and halal options are available in most cities.
X
Xavier
Monday, February 10, 2025 11:15 AM
5.0 Excellent
The ideal time for this itinerary is October to April, with dry weather and pleasant temperatures:Hanoi, Ninh Binh, Halong Bay: Best from October to April (cooler, clear skies).Hoi An & Da Nang: February to May is ideal for sightseeing and beach activities.Ho Chi Minh City & Mekong Delta: Warm year-round, but December to April is the driest period.💡 Tip: Avoid July to September for Halong Bay cruises, as it’s typhoon season and some tours may get canceled.
D
Destremau
Monday, February 10, 2025 11:16 AM
5.0 Excellent
✔ Hanoi: Explore the Old Quarter, Hoan Kiem Lake, and Temple of Literature.✔ Ninh Binh (Trang An, Bai Dinh Pagoda): Boat rides through caves and ancient temples.✔ Halong Bay: Surprise Cave, Titov Island, kayaking, and a luxury cruise stay.✔ Da Nang & Hoi An: Visit Ba Na Hills & Golden Bridge, explore Hoi An’s ancient town, and take a lantern boat ride.✔ Ho Chi Minh City: War Remnants Museum, Ben Thanh Market, and Notre Dame Cathedral.✔ Ben Tre (Mekong Delta): Coconut farms, boat rides, and countryside experiences.🚀 This itinerary is perfect for culture lovers, history enthusiasts, and nature explorers! 🇻🇳✨
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Vietnam Cultural Discovery Tour 10 Days 9 Nights
Duration10 days 9 nights
Customer reviews5.0 Excellent
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