From Ho Chi Minh's Mausoleum in Hanoi to the Imperial Citadel in Hue, trace the complex history of Vietnam. Cruise through the karsts of Halong Bay and the vibrant markets of the Mekong Delta and uncover elegant boutiques and Michelin-stars in high-octane Saigon.
CLASSIC VIETNAM
HIGHLIGHTS
- Losing yourself in the bustling narrow streets of Hanoi's Old Quarter by cyclo.
- Cruising through breath-taking scenery in Halong Bay and waking to the mist hanging over the 'teeth' of the karst rock formations.
- Exploring the imperial splendour of Hue, on the banks of the Perfume River.
- Wandering through peaceful Hoi An, A UNESCO World Heritage Site.
- An overnight cruise through the Mekong Delta.
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Arrive
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Day 1 Hanoi
Arrive in the atmospheric capital of Vietnam, Hanoi.
Overnight: Sofitel Metropole
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Day 2 Hanoi
Images of Ho Chi Minh ('Uncle Ho') are everywhere and a visit to his imposing mausoleum is always fascinating, but especially evocative at sunrise for the pomp and ceremony of the flag raising ceremony. The picturesque Temple of Literature was the country's first university and now only teaches the philosophies of Confucianism. A traditional cyclo tour is the best way to explore the colourful narrow streets of the Old Quarter and this is the best place to take in a water puppet show, dating back over 1000 years.
Overnight: Sofitel Metropole
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Day 3 - 4 Vietnamese Coast
Enjoy three days and two nights cruising through the incredible limestone karsts of Halong Bay. Explore caves, swim in the warm waters of a peaceful bay and appreciate the views as your traditional junk glides between the islands.
Overnight: The Au Co
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Day 5 Hanoi
Return to Hanoi this afternoon and relax by the pool.
Overnight: Sofitel Metropole
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Day 6 Hue
Fly to Hue, capital of the imperial Nguyen dynasty between 1802 and 1945. This afternoon you can cruise along the Perfume River, visit the most impressive temple in town at the Thien Mu Pagoda and the lively Dong Ba Market.
Overnight: La Residence
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Day 7 Hue
Your exploration of this charming riverside city will include the mausoleum of Emporer Tu Duc and the fascinating Imperial Citadel, bearing the scars of fierce fighting during the Vietnam War.
Overnight: La Residence
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Day 8 Hoi An
Drive through the stunning Hai Van pass - the 21km stretch of road crossing over where the Annamese Mountain Range meets the Eastern Sea - and along the coast to Hoi An.
Overnight: Nam Hai
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Day 9 - 10 Hoi An
The historic town of Hoi An, protected by UNESCO, is close by and offers a charming combination of architecture, cafe culture and great shopping. The rest of your time can be enjoyed simply relaxing in your luxurious villa, lapping one of the stunning infinity pools or being pampered in the fantastic spa.
Overnight: Nam Hai
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Day 11 Saigon
Transfer to Danang and fly to Ho Chi Minh City (Saigon). Take the speedboat to your hotel and relax.
Overnight: An Lam Saigon River
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Day 12 Saigon
Discover the infamous Cu Chi Tunnels and learn about the lives and tactics of the Vietnamese guerrillas during the American War. Return to the city and explore the incredible War Remnants Museum as well as seeing the highlights of Reunification Palace, Central Post Office and the Opera House. Return to the hotel for the rest of the day at leisure.
Overnight: An Lam Saigon River
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Day 13 Mekong Delta
Transfer to Cai Be and board your overnight cruise through the Mekong Delta. Watch the world go by from the deck and disembark for a walking tour of local villages.
Overnight: Mekong Eyes
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Day 14 Mekong Delta
Rise early for a final short cruise as the riverside communities spring to life. Explore the most vibrant market in the Mekong Delta at Cai Rang before disembarking at Can Tho. Return to Saigon and jump onto the back of a vespa for a thrilling "Vespa After Dark" tour as your experienced driver-guide meanders through the traffic and down the back streets so that you can experience hidden bars, coffee shops and the most delicious street food.
Overnight: Park Hyatt
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Day 15 Depart
After a morning at leisure, transfer to the airport for your flight home.
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Depart
BOOKING NOTES
- Prices are per person based on two people sharing a room.
INCLUSIONS
- All accommodation as detailed in the itinerary.
- Daily breakfast.
- Private transfers throughout.
- All sightseeing, entrance fees and guide services as detailed in the itinerary.
- Internal flights where detailed in the itinerary.
EXTRAS
- International flights.
- Meals not indicated in the itinerary.
- Items of a personal nature such as laundry, drinks, gratuities (discretionary).
- Entrance fees and excursions not specifically mentioned as included.
- Travel insurance or visa fees.
