Home » Vietnam Tours » The Highlights of Central and Northern Vietnam

The Highlights of Central and Northern Vietnam


Ho Chi Minh Mausoleum

Hanoi

Hoan Kiem Lake

Hanoi

Halong Bay

Halong Bay

Ba Na Hill

Danang

Hoi An Ancient

Hoi An

My Son Sanctuary

My Son Sanctuary

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About This Trip

Embark on an unforgettable 10-day odyssey to uncover the enchanting allure of Northern and Central Vietnam. Begin your journey in Hanoi, where ancient temples and colonial architecture whisper tales of centuries past. Stroll through the bustling Old Quarter, savor aromatic street food, and delve into the city’s rich cultural tapestry. Next, venture to Ninh Binh, a serene landscape of towering limestone karsts, emerald rice paddies, and winding rivers. Cruise into the surreal beauty of Halong Bay, where emerald waters and jagged islets create a dreamlike seascape. Spend 2 nights with luxurious Elite of the Seas Cruise, kayak through hidden lagoons, and witness breathtaking sunrise. Continue southward to Danang, a dynamic coastal city and discover the UNESCO-listed Hoi An Ancient Town. Wander through lantern-lit streets, visit historic pagodas, and attend the interesting cooking lesson there. This meticulously crafted itinerary promises a harmonious blend of history, nature, and culture, leaving you with memories to last a lifetime.

Highlights

  • Visit Ho Chi Minh Mausoleum and the very first university of Vietnam
  • 2 nights on luxurious Halong Bay cruise with a variety of activities and magnificent landscapes
  • Discover unique architecture and culture of Hoi An

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Tour Itinerary

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Meals included: No meal

Hotel: Pan Pacific Hanoi, 4-star or similar class (downtown)

Welcome to Hanoi, the political, cultural, and technological hub of Vietnam, which is renowned for its long-standing history and rich cultural heritage.

Upon arrival, you will be picked up and transferred to your hotel. For the est of the day, free and easy on your own.


Meals included: Breakfast, Lunch

Hotel: Pan Pacific Hanoi, 4-star or similar class (downtown)

At 9:00 am, your tour guide will arrive on time to pick you up and kick off an amazing day tour in Hanoi. The first stop is the Ho Chi Minh Mausoleum (closed on Mondays and Fridays). After paying respects to the great leader, we’ll visit the quaint traditional stilt house nearby and the uniquely charming One-Pillar Pagoda. Next, we’ll head to Tran Quoc Pagoda, which lies peacefully on the shore of West Lake with pleasant scenery. Then, visit the Quan Thanh Temple, which exudes a solemn and historical atmosphere. After that, we’ll arrive at the Temple of Literature, Vietnam’s first university, where you can immerse yourself in a rich academic ambiance. For lunch, we’ll savor authentic local cuisine at a restaurant.

In the afternoon, we’ll visit the Ethnology Museum (closed on Mondays) to learn about Vietnam’s diverse cultures, and then proceed to Ngoc Son Temple at Hoan Kiem Lake.

As evening falls, enjoy a wonderful water puppet show. Afterward, you’re free to have dinner on your own. Finally, return to the hotel for a good rest.


Meals included: Breakfast, Lunch

Hotel: Pan Pacific Hanoi, 4-star or similar class (downtown)

Your guide will pick you up at your hotel, and we’ll set off for the enchanting Tam Coc.  Hop on a sampan boat along the Ngo Dong River, passing through three captivating caves. Then, take a bike and leisurely explore the charming surroundings of Tam Coc. Afterward, enjoy a delicious lunch.

In the afternoon, step back in time at Hoa Lu, Vietnam’s ancient capital from the 10th century, visiting the Dinh King Temple and Le King Temple. Next, walking along Mua Cave’s 500 stone steps for a breathtaking panorama of the countryside and river. Finally, we’ll drive back to your hotel in Hanoi.


Meals included: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner

Hotel: On cruise

Begin your day with breakfast at your hotel. Then meet your guide for a scenic transfer to Halong Bay. Upon arrival at the port, complete a quick check-in and board on the luxurious Elite of the Seas Cruise by speedboat. Welcome by the cruise team, enjoy the welcome lunch and check-in your cabin.

In the afternoon, kayak at Ao Ech Area or stay onboard with a refreshing swimming and relax. If weather permits, capture stunning views via drone photography, followed by tea break. At 18:00, join a lively cooking class and enjoy happy hour with complimentary drinks.

After dinner, extend the fun with optional activities: squid fishing under the stars, a rejuvenating spa session (extra fee will be charged), or onboard golf.


Meals included: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner

Hotel: On cruise

Today, you can get up early to greet the day with a breathtaking sunrise view, followed by a revitalizing golf lesson or a serene Tai Chi session at the gold course. 

After breakfast, have some free time on your own. Then have brunch buffet before embarking on an excursion to Viet Hai Village on Cat Ba Island. Explore the rustic charm of the village by bike or electric car, then enjoy a refreshing swim at Ba Trai Dao area. Return to Elite of the Seas by 16:30 and relax. From 18:00,enjoy the Happy Hour and a Cooking class. Followed by a gourmet dinner and optional evening activities like fishing, spa, or golf.


Meals included: Breakfast, Brunch

Hotel: Grand Mercure Danang , 4-star hotel or similar class (downtown)

Wake up early to enjoy a stunning sunrise, then choose between a lively golf class or a Tai Chi session to energize your morning. Enjoy breakfast buffet before exploring the mystical Dark-Bright Cave on a tranquil sampan boat ride.

At 9:30, check out of your cabin and enjoy a leisurely brunch at the restaurant. Settle the bills (If it applies) as the ship sails back to the harbor. Return to the mainland via speedboat, then transfer by car to the airport for your flight to Danang. Upon arrival, check into your hotel and relax.


Meals included: Breakfast, Lunch

Hotel: Grand Mercure Danang , 4-star hotel or similar class (downtown)

Enjoy breakfast at your hotel. Then continue on your journey to next destination—Danang. Upon arrival, take a cable car upon to Ba Na Hill with an elevation of 1,487 meters above sea level. You will explore its highlights including the enchanting Bynight by Train, the historic Debay Wine Cellar (extra fee of $2.5/person), the vibrant Le Jardin D’Amour Flower Garden, and the serene Linh Ung Pagoda with its iconic Thich Ca Buddha Statue. Enjoy a free lunch amidst the mountain scenery.

In the afternoon, enjoy fun at Fantasy Park, where thrilling rides like the free falling tower, dinosaur park, and maze await (additional fees apply). Walk to the mountain summit to admire the Bell Tower, Nghinh Phong Tower, and the iconic Golden Bridge. Later, return by cable car and take private car to Danang.


Meals included: Breakfast, Lunch

Hotel: Renaissance Hoi An Resort & Spa, 4-star hotel or similar class (Facing Cua Dai Beach and the picturesque Cu Lao Cham Island )

This morning, departing from Danang and heading towards the enchanting Hoi An Ancient Town. Along the way, make a captivating stop to explore My Son Sanctuary, a significant archaeological site showcasing the rich heritage of the Cham civilization, followed by savoring a delightful traditional lunch.

In the afternoon, immerse yourself in the charm of Hoi An as you visit iconic landmarks including the historic Japanese Bridge, the serene Chinese Temple, and the intricately designed Tan Ky Chinese-style trading house.

Dinner is on your own choice. Spend a peaceful night in the captivating ambiance of Hoi An.


Meals included: Breakfast, Lunch

Renaissance Hoi An Resort & Spa, 4-star hotel or similar class (Facing Cua Dai Beach and the picturesque Cu Lao Cham Island )

In the morning, embark on a biking tour to Tra Qua Village, where you’ll immerse yourself in a serene ambiance, observe farmers diligently tending to their fields, and even try some traditional farming techniques. Following this enriching experience, relax your feet in a rejuvenating 20-minute Vietnamese herb bath. Then, dive into the flavors of Vietnam by participating in a traditional cooking class. Return to Hoi An town afterward and enjoy the remainder of your day at leisure.

Dinner is on your own choice. Overnight in Hoi An.


Meals included: Breakfast

Enjoy breakfast at the your hotel. At the appointed time, transfer to Danang International Airport for your departure flight. End your exploration tour in Vietnam.



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