Hanoi- Halong Bay & Ho Chi Minh City Tour 5 Nights/6 Days

Overview

This itinerary offers a rich blend of cultural exploration, stunning natural beauty, and immersive experiences in Vietnam. You will explore the historical significance of both Hanoi and Ho Chi Minh City, marvel at the spectacular landscapes of Ha Long Bay, and engage with local traditions through food, crafts, and cultural performances.

Trip Highlights:

Water Puppet Show: Experience the unique and traditional art form of water puppetry, showcasing Vietnamese folklore through charming performances on water.
Historical Exploration: Ho Chi Minh Mausoleum: Visit the solemn resting place of Vietnam’s founding father, Ho Chi Minh, and learn about his significant impact on the country.
War Remnants Museum: Gain insight into Vietnam's history and the effects of the Vietnam War through poignant exhibits and photographs.
Architectural Wonders:
One Pillar Pagoda and Temple of Literature: Explore these iconic sites that reflect Vietnam's architectural beauty and cultural significance as the country's first national university.
Natural Beauty: Ha Long Bay Cruise: Sail through the UNESCO World Heritage Site of Ha Long Bay, famous for its stunning limestone karsts and islets, with opportunities to explore caves and swim at beautiful beaches.
Scenic Driving: Enjoy picturesque views of the Red River Delta on the drive to Ha Long Bay, with lush rice fields and charming Vietnamese villages along the way.
Local Experiences: Mekong Delta Excursion: Cruise the Mekong River, visit floating villages, and enjoy local specialties such as honey, fruits, and traditional folk music performances.
Shopping in Hanoi: Stroll through the bustling Hanoi Old Quarter and vibrant markets like Ben Thanh Market, offering a variety of local crafts and souvenirs.
Panoramic Views: Lotte Observation Deck: Ascend to one of Hanoi's highest viewpoints for breathtaking panoramic views of the city skyline and experience an exhilarating glass skywalk.
Delicious Vietnamese Cuisine: Savor authentic Vietnamese dishes throughout the tour, including seafood caught fresh from Ha Long Bay and local delicacies enjoyed on dinner cruises and meals in traditional restaurants.
Comprehensive Itinerary: Balance of historical sites, cultural experiences, scenic landscapes, and leisure time for personal exploration, ensuring a well-rounded view of Vietnam.

Price Starting From

$ 785

Best Time to Travel

Peak Tourist Season: The period from December to February can be crowded, especially around Tết (Vietnamese Lunar New Year), when many locals travel.
Monsoon Season:
- Northern Vietnam experiences rain from May to August.
- Central Vietnam sees heavy rainfall from August to November.
- Southern Vietnam has its rainy season from May to October, with the heaviest rain typically in June and July.

Itinerary

DAY 1: Hanoi Arrival – Water Pupet Show

Arrival: Warm welcome at Noi Bai International Airport by your guide. Transfer to your hotel for check-in and relaxation (Check-in after 14:00; early check-in not included).

Enjoy a spectacular Water Puppet Show, a traditional Vietnamese performance featuring carved wooden puppets that perform stories and legends on water, accompanied by live music. Leisure Time: Free time to explore the area around your hotel or enjoy local dining options. Overnight: Stay in Hanoi.

DAY 2: Full day Hanoi Ctiy Tour

Breakfast: Breakfast at the hotel. Proceed for full day Hanoi city tour, Visit Ba Dinh Square and Ho Chi Minh Mausoleum (closed on Mondays and Fridays). Explore His House on Stilts and the One Pillar Pagoda. Visit the Temple of Literature, Vietnam's first national university.

Lunch: Enjoy local cuisine at a nearby restaurant (optional and not included). Afternoon: Visit Hoan Kiem Lake, see The Huc Bridge and Ngoc Son Temple. Head to West Lake to visit Tran Quoc Pagoda, the oldest pagoda in Hanoi. Spend time shopping and strolling around the Hanoi Old Quarter (36 Ancient Streets) and Dong Xuan Market (closes after 5:30 PM).

Evening: Lotte Observation Deck Visit the Lotte Observation Deck for stunning panoramic views from the 65th floor. Experience interactive displays and a thrilling glass skywalk. Return to Hotel: Check back into your hotel and relax. Overnight: Stay in Hanoi.

DAY 3: Day trip to Halong Bay & Fly to Ho Chi Minh City

After breakfast at the hotel and check out (Check-out before 12:00; late check-out not included).

Depart for Ha Long Bay (200km, approximately 2.5 hours drive), passing through picturesque rice fields and traditional Vietnamese villages in the Red River Delta.

Arrival in Ha Long: Arrive and start your boat cruise to explore Ha Long Bay, a UNESCO World Heritage Site known for its stunning limestone karsts and emerald waters. Activities: Visit Thien Cung Grotto, cruising past various islets, including Luon Cave, Sung Sot Cave, and Titop Island. Seafood lunch will be served on board.

Return to Hanoi: After the cruise, transfer back to Hanoi and catch your flight to Ho Chi Minh City (flight scheduled for after 18:00). Arrival in Ho Chi Minh City: Welcome at Tan Son Nhat International Airport and transfer to your hotel for check-in and relaxation. Overnight: Stay in Ho Chi Minh City.

DAY 4: Excursion to Cu Chi Tunnel & Mekong Delta

Breakfast at the hotel. Proceed for the tour to Cu Chi Tunnels Depart for the Cu Chi Tunnels, located 70 km from Ho Chi Minh City. Explore the underground network used during the Vietnam War, with complex tunnel systems and an opportunity to try shooting an AK-47 (additional cost).

Afternoon: Mekong Delta Excursion: Depart for My Tho, the capital of Tien Giang Province (2 hours drive). Cruise on the Tien River to visit Thoi Son Islet via a motorized boat. Visit local fishing villages, floating fish farms, and tropical orchards. Participate in honey tasting and enjoy traditional folk music. Experience a rowing boat ride through the peaceful coconut-lined creeks. Return to Ho Chi Minh City: Drive back to Ho Chi Minh City. Overnight: Stay in Ho Chi Minh City.

DAY 5: Full day Ho Chi Minh City & Cruise Dinner

Enjoy breakfast at the hotel.

Morning: City Tour Visit the War Remnants Museum to understand Vietnam's history and the impact of the Vietnam War. Take photo stops at key landmarks: Central Post Office: Admire its stunning colonial architecture. Notre Dame Cathedral: A beautiful example of French colonial design, located nearby. Reunification Palace: Take photos of this historic site from outside. Nguyen Hue Walking Street: Experience the hustle and bustle of the city.

Afternoon Visit the Mariam man Hindu Temple, one of the oldest Hindu temples in the city, reflecting the culture of the Indian community. Free time for shopping at Ben Thanh Market, where you can find local handicrafts, souvenirs, and traditional food. Evening dinner on a Cruise Join a dinner cruise on the Saigon River:

Schedule:
- 18:00: Welcome aboard.
- 19:45: Dinner service begins, featuring local cuisine.
- 21:15: Disembark from the cruise.
Enjoy beautiful views of the city skyline as you dine.
Overnight: Stay in Ho Chi Minh City.

DAY 6: Departure (B)

Breakfast at hotel. Free untill departure transfer to the airport for the flight back to home/ next destination

Excludes and Includes

Price Inclusions

02 Nights accommodation in Hanoi with breakfast
03 Night accommodation in Ho Chi Minh City with breakfast
Private A/C vehicle (7/16/29 seats) as per the program schedule.
English-speaking guide for all listed activities.
Complimentary mineral water (02 bottles per person per day).
Halong Bay Day Cruise with lunch
Basic travel insurance coverage (maximum of US$ 5,000 per case).
All entrance fees and boat trips as detailed in the itinerary.
Onboard Activities in Ha Long Bay
Guide services and full board on the cruise, including all activities mentioned in the program (e.g., kayaking).
Complimentary Visa Authorization Letter for entry into Vietnam.
Applicable local taxes and service charge
Outbound tour tax

Price Exclusions

International & domestic flights
Hotel early check-in and late check-out are not included.
Vietnam Visa Fee on Arrival: $25 per person.
Any personal expenses incurred during the trip.
Expenses surcharge that may arise due to confirmation based on available services or suppliers’ amendments.
Other services that are not mentioned in the inclusions.
Compulsory tips for guide and driver: $3 per person per day.
Compulsory meal(s) during festive/holidays to be advised when the hotel releases the official announcement.

Visa Information

Visa Requirements:

Check the visa requirements for your nationality before traveling. Many travelers can obtain a visa on arrival, but you may also need a visa authorization letter in advance.

Notes

Hotel and Cruise Options

City 3 Star 4 Star

Hanoi La Dolce Vita 3* (Superior) or Similar Chalcedony 4* (Superior) or Similar

Ho Chi Minh City White Lotus 3* (Superior) or Similar Sky Gem Hotel Ben Thanh 4* (Superior) or Similar

Public Holidays in Vietnam: Blackout Dates

Blackout Dates for 2025:

New Year Holiday: January 1, 2025
Lunar New Year Holidays: January 25 - February 2, 2025
Hung King Commemoration Day: April 7, 2025
Independence Day: April 30, 2025
International Labor Day: May 1, 2025
National Day: September 2, 2025
Christmas: December 24 - 26, 2025

Child Policy

Age of Child: Tour Fare

Under 2 years old: Free of charge
Under 10 years old
- - Without extra bed: 50% of adult fare
- - With extra bed: 90% of adult fare
10 years old and above: Equivalent to adult fare

Terms & Conditions

Booking Confirmation:

A booking is considered confirmed upon receipt of a non-refundable deposit of 25%, which will be communicated at the time of booking.
Full payment is required at least 30 days prior to departure.

Cancellation Policy:

Cancellations must be provided in writing.
Cancellation fees will apply as follows:
More than 30 days before departure: Free cancellation (deposit retained).
15 to 30 days before departure: 50% of total fare.
Less than 15 days before departure: 100% of total fare.

Changes to Itinerary:

The travel agency reserves the right to modify itineraries due to unforeseen circumstances such as weather conditions, travel restrictions, or other factors affecting safety.
Any changes will be communicated promptly, and efforts will be made to offer alternate arrangements.

Traveler Responsibilities:

Travelers are required to have valid travel documents (passport, visas) and ensure they are up to date.
Travelers are responsible for their own health and safety during the trip, including travel insurance coverage.

Travel Insurance:

It is strongly recommended that all travelers obtain comprehensive travel insurance to cover personal belongings, medical expenses, and trip cancellations.

Liability:

The travel agency is not liable for any personal injury, loss, or damage sustained by travelers as a result of participating in the tour.
The agency is also not responsible for any delays, cancellations, or disturbances caused by third parties.

Payment Methods:

Payments can be made via bank transfer, credit card, or other approved methods as communicated by the travel agency.
Any transaction fees incurred are the responsibility of the traveler.

Governing Law:

These terms and conditions are governed by the laws of the country in which the travel agency is registered.

Acceptance of Terms:

By making a booking, travelers acknowledge that they have read and accepted these terms and conditions.

Travel Tips for Vietnam

Currency: The currency in Vietnam is the Vietnamese Dong (VND). It's advisable to carry some cash, especially for small purchases and in rural areas. Credit cards are widely accepted in major cities, but cash is king in local markets and smaller vendors.

Language: Vietnamese is the official language. While many people in urban areas speak some English, learning a few basic Vietnamese phrases can help you engage with locals and enhance your experience.

Transportation: Use reputable taxis or ridesharing services like Grab for city travel. In major cities, buses, motorbikes, and bicycles are also popular options. Be cautious when riding a motorbike if you’re not experienced.

Local Etiquette: Dress modestly when visiting temples and religious sites. Remove shoes before entering homes or sacred places.

It is polite to greet with a smile and a nod. Handshakes are common, but avoid touching the head, as it’s considered sacred.

Tap Water: Avoid drinking tap water. Always drink bottled or filtered water, and ensure that bottles are sealed before purchase.

Food and Dining: Vietnam is famous for its street food. Be adventurous, but choose stalls that are busy and have high turnover to ensure freshness.

Always look out for cleanliness and hygiene. If you have a sensitive stomach, opt for cooked foods over raw.

Weather Preparedness: Vietnam has a diverse climate. Check the weather for the specific regions you will be visiting and pack accordingly. Lightweight clothing is advisable in the heat, while warmer clothes may be needed in the northern mountains.

Bargaining: Bargaining is common in markets. Start with half the asking price and negotiate from there. This is part of the shopping experience in Vietnam.

Cultural Sites: When visiting historical sites and cultural landmarks, be respectful and follow any posted guidelines. Photography may be restricted in some areas, so always ask first.

Emergency Contacts: Familiarize yourself with local emergency numbers, and keep your hotel’s contact information handy. In Vietnam, the emergency number for police, fire, and ambulance services is 113, 114, and 115, respectively.

Health Precautions: Consult your doctor regarding vaccinations and health precautions. Carry any necessary medications, as well as a small first-aid kit for minor issues.

Stay Connected: Buying a local SIM card upon arrival can be cost-effective for staying connected and accessing maps or translation apps.