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Classic Vietnam

10 days

PRIVATE TOUR: In 10 memorable days, see the best of vibrant Vietnam. Explore Hanoi’s enchanting Old Quarter and the Imperial city of Hue. Experience life in the fast lane in Ho Chi Minh City and take time out in Hoi An. Spend a night aboard a Junk in breathtaking Halong Bay, cruise the scenic Mekong Delta and more on this exciting Southeast Asian adventure!

For a detailed itinerary and information about visas, money, weather and more download our Trip Notes

Free cancellation
Free amends
Available on all departures booked at least 40 days in advance. Cancel or change your booking for FREE for up to 7 days after booking

Tour Overview

Duration

10 days

Starts

Hanoi

Ends

Ho Chi Minh City

Range

Private

Tour Guide

Yes - for included sightseeing

Group Size

Minimum age

5 yrs, accompanied by an adult

Departs

Any day of the year

Hotel Rating

Superior

Countries

Vietnam

Arrival Transfer

Yes

Departure Transfer

Yes

Meals included

Breakfast: 9, Lunch: 5, Dinner: 1
Per person from
NZD$4,005.00
Total From
NZD$8,010.00
Deposit From
Final payment
NZD$2,524.00
$6,748.00

Tour Highlights

Hanoi - Take in the highlights of the capital including Ho Chi Minh's house of stilts, One Pillar Pagoda, Temple of Literature and take a cyclo ride around the Ancient Quarter
Halong Bay – Cruise around the beautiful bay onboard a traditional junk boat and explore the remarkable caves
Hue – Discover the ancient walled Citadel, the Purple Palace and Royal Tombs
Hoi An - Stroll around this enchanting UNESCO Listed former merchant trading post, famed for its beautifully preserved architecture
Danang - Visit the Cham Museum, once centre of the ancient Cham civilization
Ho Chi Minh City – Explore the city on a guided walking tour and visit the sobering War Remnants Museum
Mekong Delta - Cruise the maze of waterways on a sampan and visit local cottage industries

Included

Breakfast daily, 5 lunches and 1 dinner
8 nights superior hotels. (standard & deluxe prices available, please enquire) Accommodation rating – See Trip Notes for details
1 night aboard deluxe junk boat in Halong Bay (private en suite cabin)
Guided sightseeing - Hanoi, Hue, Hoi An and Ho Chi Minh City
Sampan cruise on the Mekong Delta
Water Puppets Performance in Hanoi
Boat trip on the Perfume River in Hue
2 economy class flights: Hanoi to Hue and Da Nang to Ho Chi Minh City
Entrance fees to all included sights
Local English speaking specialist guides for all sightseeing
An airport arrival transfer day 1 and a departure transfer day 10
All relevant transfers and transportation in private air-conditioned vehicles

Not Included

International flights and visa
Tipping - An entirely personal gesture

Itinerary

Day 1 - Hanoi

Welcome to Hanoi! Upon arrival at Hanoi Airport you will be met and transferred to your hotel. The afternoon can be spent exploring the wide, tree-lined streets of Hanoi, resplendent with French colonial architecture and the scenic Hoan Kiem Lake. This evening attend a traditional Vietnamese water puppet performance.

Overnight: Hanoi

Day 2 - Hanoi City Tour

This morning there is an optional 'Good Morning Hanoi' excursion that can be booked locally. On this excursion start the day sampling a traditional Vietnamese breakfast, with a bowl of steaming Pho at one of Hanoi's most popular eateries. After enjoying the national dish take a stroll around Hoan Kiem Lake, a focal pointfor many of the local residents who gather there each day to practice Tai Chi, play badminton and do aerobics. End the excursion with a visit a local coffee shop to observe how Hanoi locals enjoy sipping Vietnamese bitter sweet coffee at Café Giang.

Take in the highlights of Hanoi on a guided tour today, including the Temple of Literature - Vietnam’s first university dating to 1070, Ho Chi Minh’s humble “stilt house”, the French colonial Governor’s Palace and the 11th century One-Pillar Pagoda. A short drive into the countryside takes you to a village on the outskirts of Hanoi where you'll enjoy a cooking demonstration hosted by a local family. After a delicious lunch return to Hanoi and embark on a cyclo (rickshaw) tour of the winding alleys that make up the atmospheric Ancient Quarter, otherwise known as the 36 Streets of Hanoi.

The remainder of today is at your leisure, alternatively you can book an optional “Taste of Hanoi” walking tour of the city to discover the unique flavours of Vietnamese cuisine.

Overnight: Hanoi
Meals: Breakfast, Lunch

Day 3 - Crusing on Halong Bay

Hanoi - Halong Bay. Early this morning journey north to Halong Bay (approx 4 hours drive), stopping for a refreshment break en route. UNESCO Listed Halong Bay is undoubtedly one of Vietnam's most spectacular regions. Thousands of karst limestone and jungle covered peaks and isles, rise dramatically out of the emerald waters of the bay. Spend the day cruising around the islands onboard a traditional junk boat. Stopping to explore caves and coves and to swim in the emerald waters. Enjoy a cooking demonstration on board and tuck into a scrumptious lunch and dinner.

Please note: the cruise itinerary and schedule is subject to change and dependent upon weather conditions.

Overnight: Halong Bay Junk
Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner

Day 4 - Halong Bay to Hue

Halong Bay - Hue. Enjoy the fresh air and the gentle breeze from the top deck this morning as you relax onboard the junk and cruise around different parts of the bay. Brunch is served onboard.

Check out at around noon time and transfer back to Hanoi airport, stopping en route in Bac Ninh to visit Dong Ho Village. Dong Ho Village is famous for its long-preserved art of making pictures. Visit a studio in village where you can watch the procedure of carving and printing these paintings and learn about the local folk tales represented in the paintings. Onward to Hanoi Airport for your evening flight to Hue in central Vietnam. Upon arrival you will be met and transferred to your hotel.

Overnight: Hue
Meals: Breakfast

Day 5 - Hue & the Perfume River

Enjoy a full day tour of Hue including a boat trip on Perfume River (Huong River) to Thien Mu Pagoda and Minh Mang tomb. Thien Mu Pagoda is an octagonal tower of seven tiers that rises majestically over the Perfume River. Continue to the mausoleum of Emperor Minh Mang, an incredible complex which consists of 40 palaces, temples and pavilions, designed on a symmetrical axis. Later, visit the Imperial Citadel and Forbidden City which was created in the 19th century for the Emperors of the Nguyen Dynasty. Enjoy free time for some “retail therapy” at Dong Ba Market before transferring back to the hotel.

Overnight: Hue
Meals: Breakfast, Lunch

Day 6 - Ancient Hoi An

Hue - Hoi An. This morning continue your journey by road to Hoi An via spectacular Cloudy Pass. A stop is made in Danang to visit the Cham Museum, once centre of the ancient Cham civilization. UNESCO Listed Hoi An is a former merchant trading post, famed for its beautifully preserved Chinese, Japanese and European architecture. Picturesque Hoi An has managed to retain its traditional character and charm, with its cobbled streets, markets and row upon row of tailors shops. This afternoon, enjoy a walking tour around the cobbled streets of this ancient town, which was once of the busiest trading ports in Asia.

Overnight: Hoi An
Meals: Breakfast

Day 7 - Free day in Hoi An

Spend a day at leisure in this enchanting riverside town or head to the nearby An Bang beach.

Alternatively there's an optional cooking class or a half day excursion to My Son, the holiest and evocative of Vietnam’s Cham sites. Here at the ancient Kingdom of Champa you can see the burial tombs of the Cham royals and national heroes.

Overnight: Hoi An
Meals: Breakfast

Day 8 - Ho Chi Minh City

Hoi An - Ho Chi Minh City. Fly to Ho Chi Minh City today and transfer to your hotel. Ho Chi Minh City, though still referred to as Saigon to all but city officials is Vietnam's most lively, modern and cosmopolitan city. In the afternoon discover the highlights of the city on a guided tour, taking in the Notre Dame Cathedral (outside only as renovating), the Central Post Office and Chinatown. End the day with a visit to the sobering War Remnants Museum.

Overnight: Ho Chi Minh City
Meals: Breakfast

Day 9 - The Mekong Delta

Ho Chi Minh City - Mekong Delta - Can Tho. Explore the beautiful Mekong Delta today! Early this morning drive to Ben Tre and board a traditional Sampan boat at around 10:00am to explore the peaceful waterways. During the boat trip, visit a local cottage industries making bricks, producing rice paper and Mr. Sau Khanh’s house - who has been collecting antiques which include ancient and valuable ceramics, pottery pieces like bowls, dishes and vases, to ceiling lights, sculptures and Buddha statues. In the afternoon we travel onto Can Tho for the night.

Overnight: Can Tho
Meals: Breakfast, Lunch

Day 10 - Ho Chi Minh City

Can Tho - Ho Chi Minh City. Morning cruise along the Mekong's small and picturesque tributaries where we will visit the bustling Cai Rang Floating Market. Take in the beautiful scenery and watch the locals going about their daily lives along the Mekong canals. Then return to Ho Chi Minh City mid afternoon and transfer to the airport in time for your international flight.

Please note: Flights should not depart before 17.00hrs. If you'd like to extend your stay in Ho Chi Minh City we recommend exploring the Reunification Palace and taking a day trip to the famous Cu Chi Tunnels.

Meals: Breakfast, Lunch

Tour Reviews

An excellent tour with fantastic guides and drivers throughout. Everything went as planned with a couple of additional activities due to the private tour. Hotel accommodation was excellent with the exception of Liberty Central in Saigon. Problem solved via an upgrade.

Guides were good and everything went like clockwork.

Absolutely loved Vietnam! I don’t think there was a day which didn’t surprise, or amaze us. Arriving in Vietnam I expected good food, stunning scenery, and to hear about a colorful history, but was most impressed by the friendliness of everyone. Our tour guide (Hung) welcomed us with a smile which set the tone for a great experience. We are going to miss him, his humor, and the knowledge he shared with us.

Hotels

The hotels listed below are ones which we frequently use on this tour. We reserve the right to substitute these hotels to ones of a similar standard.
Bhaya Classic I Junk Boat
Halong Bay

This premier cruise boat offers 18 well appointed cabins with en suite amenities. Cabins are contemporary in design, whilst the finer touches have a distinct oriental influence. All cabins feature large windows creating a bright and airy atmosphere as well as scenic views. Facilities and services onboard include a dining room and bar, a sunbathing area on-deck, masseur and small library.

Our Rating
Superior
Local Rating
Mid Range Junk
Pelican Cruise Junk Boat
Halong Bay

Launched in 2014, this impressive junk boat blends traditional with modern and is a great vessel for exploring the UNESCO-listed Halong Bay. Two covered decks are home to the boat's 22 cabins, all featuring large windows, private balconies and tasteful furnishings. Cabins also come equipped with air-conditioning, a minibar, and private bathrooms. The third deck offers sun loungers, a spa, and a restaurant serving Vietnamese and Western cuisine, as well as space for activities such as sunrise tai chi.

Our Rating
Deluxe
Local Rating
5 star cruise boat
ÊMM Hotel
Hue

Situated in the heart of the former imperial capital, ÊMM Hotel is the perfect base from which to explore Hue’s UNESCO World Heritage-listed sights. Guestrooms are spacious and complete with modern amenities. The hotel's imperial jade and royal purple colour scheme was inspired by ancient Hue itself. Guests can take advantage of the mini-gym, pool-side bar and reading area. Enjoy delicious Vietnamese and international cuisine in the onsite contemporary restaurant.

Our Rating
Superior
Local Rating
4 Star Hotel
Romance Hotel
Hue

This 11-storey hotel is just a moment's walk from the Perfume River and offers easy access to the UNESCO-listed Imperial Citadel, one of Hue's main attractions. Boasting a rooftop swimming pool, two onsite restaurants (buffet breakfast is served), and three bars, guests are spoilt for choice when it comes to eating and drinking. Other amenities include the Romance Spa and a fitness centre. Rooms feature large windows allowing for views over the city and ample light, plus cable TV, minibar, and ensuite bathrooms. Rooms also include air-conditioning and free Wi-Fi.

Our Rating
Superior
Local Rating
4 Star Hotel
Silkotel Hoi An
Hoi An

The Silkotel gets its name from the vibrant 15th-century trading hub which this part of Hoi An once was. Today it's the heart of this popular traveller destination, and the hotel is within walking distance of such attractions as the Japanese Bridge and the Hoi An Museum. Each room includes some silk furnishings in a nod to the area's past, and rooms also include king-sized (or twin) beds, ensuite bathrooms, 40" LCD TV, minibar, air-conditioning, and complimentary Wi-Fi. The main Chiffon restaurant is open all day and serves a buffet breakfast as well as a good mix of Vietnamese and Western cuisine. And there are two bars, including an outdoor pool bar by the hotel swimming pool.

Our Rating
Superior
Local Rating
4 Star Hotel
Hoi An Blue Sky Boutique Hotel
Hoi An

Hoi An Blue Sky Boutique Hotel is housed in an elegant white building with a central outdoor swimming pool. There's an additional pool on the rooftop and a bar up here too at which to enjoy a drink. There is also a garden, a shared lounge, and a private beach area nearby. Bikes can be hired free of charge from reception, and there is an onsite restaurant serving a range of local and international cuisine. Rooms feature air-conditioning and a seating area, as well as TV, safe, and ensuite bathrooms. The majority of rooms at the hotel come with a balcony

Our Rating
Superior
Local Rating
4 Star Hotel
TTC Hotel Premium Can Tho
Can Tho

Situated along the Hau River and just a short 2-minute stroll from the riverside, TTC Hotel - Can Tho boasts a central location in Can Tho. This 10-story hotel provides captivating panoramic views of both the city and the river and offers a wide range of facilities including an outdoor pool, spa, casino and nightclub. Comfort is guaranteed in the spacious, well equipped rooms and complimentary Wi-Fi is available throughout. You can savour delectable Asian and Western cuisine at the in-house TTC restaurant and enjoy scenic views of the river at The Alfresco Cafe.

Our Rating
Superior
Local Rating
4 Star Hotel
Iris Hotel
Can Tho

This elegant hotel is housed within a modern building in the city of Can Tho. Each guest room comes equipped with plush furnishings to ensure a good night's sleep and is decorated with a neutral palate and calming tones. Rooms look over the city and boast a range of modern amenities such as air conditioning and stylish ensuite facilities. Magnificent views of the city can be had from the hotel's skybar while a range of gourmet local and international dishes can be sampled at the onsite restaurant.

Our Rating
Superior
Local Rating
4 Star Hotel
The Q Hotel
Hanoi

One of the best boutique hotels in Hanoi, The Q Hotel is housed in a cosy French building in the heart of the city. The hotel restaurant is open 24/7 and offers a fine array of local and international cuisine. Rooms are modern, with wood flooring and king-sized beds, as well as ensuite bathrooms and balconies in some rooms. Amenities include air-conditioning, free Wi-Fi, TV, kettle, minibar and safe. There is a bar and fitness centre for guests to use and attractions including the Imperial Citadel and Ho Chi Minh Mausoleum are within a 30-minute walk.

Our Rating
Superior
Local Rating
4 Star Hotel
Muong Thanh Centre
Ho Chi Minh City

Centrally located, yet on a peaceful, tree-lined street, you will find the Muong Thanh Centre. Only a ten-minute walk from top attractions such as the Notre Dame Cathedral, Opera House and Ben Thanh Market, this hotel is a great base for exploring the famous sights of the city. Its guest rooms boast sophisticated designs and panoramic views. Warm and friendly, the Muong Thanh Centre also features a spa and swimming pool for you to relax and unwind after a long day of sightseeing.

Our Rating
Superior
Local Rating
4 Star Hotel

Prices & Dates

'Twin/Double' prices are per person when there are 2 people on the same booking sharing a room. 'Single' prices are applicable to solo travellers and anyone wanting the privacy of their own room, based on a travelling party of at least 2 adults.

Prices are indicative and will vary depending on your chosen hotels, room availability as well as time of travel. Please bear this in mind if comparing prices as we always aim to deliver exceptional value. Please note that discounts will apply if there are more 4 our more people in your travelling party, since fixed costs like transportation and guiding are shared across the group.

2024
Twin/Double
Single
24 Nov - 3 Dec
$4,005
$4,965
25 Nov - 4 Dec
$4,005
$4,965
26 Nov - 5 Dec
$4,005
$4,965
27 Nov - 6 Dec
$4,005
$4,965
28 Nov - 7 Dec
$4,005
$4,965
29 Nov - 8 Dec
$4,005
$4,965
30 Nov - 9 Dec
$4,005
$4,965
1 Dec - 10 Dec
$4,005
$4,965
2025
Twin/Double
Single
2 Jan - 11 Jan
$4,205
$5,215
3 Jan - 12 Jan
$4,205
$5,215
4 Jan - 13 Jan
$4,205
$5,215
5 Jan - 14 Jan
$4,205
$5,215
6 Jan - 15 Jan
$4,205
$5,215
7 Jan - 16 Jan
$4,205
$5,215
8 Jan - 17 Jan
$4,205
$5,215
9 Jan - 18 Jan
$4,205
$5,215

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