Vietnam Discovery: 7 Days of Cultural Riches - Hanoi, Ho Chi Minh City, Cu Chi Tunnels, and Mekong Delta (my Tho)

Arrive at Noi Bai International Airport and be greeted by our friendly local guide before transferring to your hotel in Hanoi, a journey of approximately 40 minutes. Known as the “River-bound City,” Hanoi is the capital of Vietnam and a treasure trove of over a thousand years of history, dating back to 1010. Discover the timeless charm of this vibrant city, where ancient temples, tree-lined boulevards, and romantic lakes blend seamlessly with French colonial architecture and traditional Vietnamese culture. With its Old Quarter, cultural landmarks, and historic beauty, Hanoi stands proudly as one of Asia’s most captivating cities.

Morning: Begin your day with a visit to the Ho Chi Minh Complex, a must-see attraction that celebrates the life and legacy of President Ho Chi Minh, the founding father of Vietnam. Explore the Ho Chi Minh Mausoleum, the Presidential Palace, and the historic One Pillar Pagoda, one of Vietnam’s most iconic Buddhist temples. Continue to the Temple of Literature, Vietnam’s first national university, built in 1070 during the Ly Dynasty to honor Confucius and distinguished scholars — a true symbol of Vietnam’s rich educational and cultural heritage. Afternoon: After lunch, continue your Hanoi city tour with a visit to one of the city’s renowned museums, such as the Museum of Fine Arts, the National Museum of Vietnamese History, the Museum of the Revolution, the Museum of Military History, or the Museum of Ethnology, depending on your interests. Later, head to the scenic Hoan Kiem Lake, the heart of Hanoi, surrounded by legends and tranquil beauty. Learn about the mythical “Returned Sword” story and spot the lake’s famous giant turtle species. Conclude your day by exploring the bustling Hanoi Old Quarter, known for its 36 ancient streets, vibrant shops, and charming colonial architecture — the perfect place for shopping and soaking up the city’s timeless atmosphere.

Morning: Begin your unforgettable journey with an 8:00 AM pickup from your hotel for a scenic drive to Ha Long Bay, approximately 160 km (3.5 hours) from Hanoi. Along the way, admire the peaceful landscapes of the Red River Delta, where you’ll see Vietnamese farmers working in lush rice paddies—a perfect opportunity for beautiful photos. Make a short stop at a local handicraft workshop, where you can observe traditional embroidery and fine clothing production. Late Morning to Afternoon: Arrive in Ha Long City around 11:30 AM and board your luxurious cruise junk. Enjoy a refreshing welcome drink before setting sail across the breathtaking Ha Long Bay, a UNESCO World Heritage Site and one of the Seven Natural Wonders of the World. As you enjoy a delicious lunch on board, marvel at the bay’s stunning panorama — a surreal seascape of nearly 2,000 limestone karsts and islets, formed over 500 million years. Cruise past iconic landmarks such as Dinh Huong Island, Ga Choi (Fighting Cocks) Island, Dog Island, and Sail Island. Explore the magnificent Sung Sot (Surprise) Cave, one of the largest and most beautiful in the bay, and unwind with a swim at Titov Beach. As evening falls, relax on deck to witness a magical Ha Long Bay sunset, followed by a sumptuous dinner on board. End your day with optional night fishing at 9:00 PM and drift into peaceful sleep surrounded by the tranquil waters of Ha Long Bay.

Morning: Wake up early to witness the breathtaking sunrise over Ha Long Bay, as the first light of day reflects off the calm emerald waters. Breathe in the fresh sea breeze, listen to the sounds of seabirds, and embrace the peaceful atmosphere of this natural wonder. After a hearty breakfast on board, continue your cruise to explore Human Head Island and Tortoise Island, two of Ha Long Bay’s uniquely shaped limestone formations. Sail further into Bai Tu Long Bay, often called “The Little Dragon Bowing to His Mother,” a serene extension of Ha Long Bay known for its untouched beauty and tranquil waters. Enjoy your final moments on board before checking out and having lunch as the cruise returns to shore. Disembark and transfer back to Hanoi Airport for your flight to Ho Chi Minh City (Saigon). Afternoon/Evening: Upon arrival in Ho Chi Minh City, meet your local guide and transfer to your hotel for check-in. Formerly known as Saigon, this dynamic metropolis is Vietnam’s largest city and commercial hub, buzzing with modern energy and endless shopping, dining, and entertainment options. Yet, beneath its modern skyline, Ho Chi Minh City preserves a rich historical and cultural heritage, offering travelers a captivating blend of past and present.

Morning: Start your day with an unforgettable half-day tour to the Cu Chi Tunnels, located about 75 km northwest of Ho Chi Minh City. This remarkable underground network once served as a strategic base for Viet Cong soldiers during the wars against the French and Americans. Entirely hand-dug, the tunnels extend over 120 kilometers, featuring multi-level passageways that included living quarters, kitchens, schools, clinics, meeting rooms, and secret escape routes. Learn how this intricate system withstood heavy bombings and sieges, showcasing the resilience and ingenuity of the Vietnamese people. After the tour, return to Saigon for lunch (on your own). Afternoon: Continue your Ho Chi Minh City sightseeing tour with visits to the city’s most iconic landmarks. Admire the Saigon Notre-Dame Basilica (currently under renovation), a stunning neo-Romanesque cathedral built entirely with materials imported from Marseille, France. Just across the street, explore the elegant Saigon Central Post Office, designed by Gustave Eiffel, the genius behind the Eiffel Tower. Next, visit the thought-provoking War Remnants Museum, home to powerful exhibits of war photography, artifacts, and historical documentation depicting Vietnam’s past conflicts. Conclude your day at the bustling Ben Thanh Market, where you can shop for souvenirs, handicrafts, and local specialties while immersing yourself in the vibrant local atmosphere.

Morning: After breakfast, embark on an exciting day trip to the Mekong Delta, the world’s largest delta and known as Vietnam’s “rice bowl.” Travel by road from Ho Chi Minh City to My Tho, the capital of Tien Giang Province, where your Mekong Delta boat tour begins. Cruise along the winding canals and lush waterways, witnessing the peaceful rhythm of local village life and the beauty of tropical islands scattered across the river. Stop at Unicorn Island, where you’ll stroll through lush fruit orchards, enjoy fresh tropical fruits, and listen to Southern Vietnamese folk music performed by local artists. Continue to Ben Tre Province, famous for its coconut farms, and visit a traditional coconut candy workshop to see how this local delicacy is made. Experience a short horse-drawn carriage ride through the countryside and then visit local bee farms to sample fresh honey and honey tea straight from the source. After a full day immersed in the charm of Mekong Delta culture and nature, return to Ho Chi Minh City in the late afternoon and enjoy the evening at your leisure.

Enjoy your final day in Vietnam at your leisure before your departure. Take this time to relax, explore nearby attractions, or do some last-minute shopping for souvenirs and local specialties. Later, you’ll be transferred to the airport for your return flight, carrying with you unforgettable memories of your Vietnam adventure — from the stunning landscapes of Ha Long Bay and the cultural charm of Hanoi to the vibrant energy of Ho Chi Minh City and the peaceful beauty of the Mekong Delta.