Discover Vietnam: Ho Chi Minh to Hanoi & Lan Ha Bay Cruise

After a morning meal at your hotel, a friendly guide will accompany you and your partner on a half-day tour of Saigon. The first stop is the historic Reunification Palace, once the official residence and workplace of the President of South Vietnam, a site that hosted many international dignitaries. Next, visit the War Remnants Museum, housing over 20,000 artifacts, documents, and films that chronicle the conflicts and their impact on Vietnam.

The tour continues to the Saigon Central Post Office, a beautiful example of French colonial architecture, marking the city's historical development into a modern European-style urban center. Conclude the city exploration with a visit to Chinatown and the bustling Ben Thanh Market, where you can observe local life and practice your bargaining skills for souvenirs.

In the late afternoon, embark on a romantic sunset cruise. A minivan will transfer you to Bach Dang Pier at 3:30 PM, where a speedboat awaits. Depart around 4:00 PM to witness the city's skyline illuminated as the sun sets, cruising along tributaries reminiscent of the Mekong Delta. The tour includes hotel pick-up/drop-off from prime locations, unlimited tropical fruits, soft drinks, and all entrance fees. The boat returns to Bach Dang Pier around 6:00 PM, followed by a transfer back to your hotel.

Begin your day with breakfast at the hotel before checking out and preparing for a journey to the Mekong River Delta. Arrive at Cai Be Jetty by 10:00 AM, where you'll board a traditional sampan. As the boat glides across the active rivers, you'll be offered cold towels and refreshing beverages, observing a variety of watercraft from fishing boats to cargo barges. Relax on your sampan, enjoying tea and seasonal fruits, while the vibrant riverside life unfolds.

An opportunity arises to rent a small rowboat and navigate through the secluded mangroves of Tan Phong Islet. On your return to the sampan, a stop at a 19th-century old house reveals local cottage industries, including the production of coconut sweets and puffed rice. The experience culminates with a delightful lunch served at a charming colonial-style mansion set within a lush tropical garden, evoking the privileged Indochina era. Around 2:30 PM, enjoy a leisurely walk along a small canal to Ba Bon Bridge, where your private car will be waiting to transport you back to Ho Chi Minh City, a journey of approximately two hours.

Enjoy a relaxed morning in Ho Chi Minh City, perhaps taking a final leisurely breakfast or exploring a local cafe. After packing your belongings, you will be transferred to the airport for a domestic flight north to Da Nang. Upon your arrival at Da Nang Airport, a dedicated driver will be waiting to provide a comfortable transfer directly to your chosen hotel in Hoi An, allowing for a smooth check-in process.

The entire afternoon is then yours to freely explore the charming, historic town of Hoi An with your partner. Wander through its beautifully preserved narrow streets, admire the ancient architecture, browse the artisan shops, and soak in the unique, tranquil atmosphere of this UNESCO World Heritage site at your own pace. Hoi An truly comes alive in the late afternoon and evening, with its iconic lanterns illuminating the riverside.

Following breakfast in Hoi An, your guide will pick you up from Hai Scout Café to commence a hands-on cooking class at Red Bridge Cooking School. Here, you will gain insights into fresh Vietnamese ingredients and master the preparation of authentic local dishes. After crafting your own culinary creations, enjoy the meal, beautifully presented with artistic carvings. Return to your hotel for some rest and preparation for the afternoon excursion.

In the afternoon, the journey continues to My Son Sanctuary, an important archaeological site. Explore the ancient religious ceremonies and burial grounds of the Champa dynasty, learning about their rich history and spiritual practices. After immersing yourselves in the historical significance of My Son, you will be transferred back to Hoi An town, where the remainder of the day is at your leisure to further explore or relax.

After breakfast at your hotel, dedicate this day to creating lasting memories in Hoi An. You have the option to explore various corners of the ancient city at your leisure, perhaps considering optional activities such as a Cam Thanh Coconut Village Basket Boat Tour or experiencing life as a farmer in Cam Thanh Village. These optional excursions offer deeper insights into local life and traditions.

In the evening, prepare for a romantic sunset dinner cruise. Arrive at the pier opposite 76 Bach Dang around 4:45 PM. The captain and crew will welcome you aboard, escorting you to a private table where a welcome cocktail and amuse-bouche will be served. The two-hour cruise along the Thu Bon River offers stunning views as the sun descends, illuminating the river activities. A five-course à la carte dinner, accommodating special dietary requests, will be served. An optional wine list and additional drinks are available for purchase.

Conclude your memorable evening by watching the boat cast off from the observation deck and releasing a floating candle lantern into the river, symbolizing good wishes. You will then return to the pier and be transferred back to your hotel for a restful night.

Enjoy breakfast and check out from your hotel in Hoi An. A driver will transfer you to Da Nang Airport for your flight to Hanoi. Upon arrival in Hanoi, a guide will greet you at the airport and transfer you to your hotel for a brief rest. In the late afternoon, around 4:00 PM, embark on an exciting Hanoi sunset biking and food tour. You'll select a bicycle and begin your ride alongside the expansive Red River, taking in the scenic views.

Discover the architectural grandeur of the Hanoi Opera House, a magnificent structure built by the French colonial administration in the early 20th century. Cycle across the iconic Long Bien Bridge, a testament to French colonial engineering from the post-Vietnam War era. Pause at Huu Tiep Lake, a poignant historical site featuring the wreckage of an American B-52 aircraft shot down in 1972. Continue exploring the vibrant and traditional surroundings of Hanoi's Old Quarter, the bustling railway street, and local markets. Conclude your tour with dinner at a renowned food court and sample the famous Hanoi Egg Coffee. The tour concludes around 7:00 PM, followed by your return to the hotel.

After an energizing breakfast, check out from your Hanoi hotel and prepare for a transfer by shuttle bus or limousine to Ha Long Bay, a UNESCO World Heritage site. Around 12:00 PM, upon boarding your cruise ship, you will receive a welcome drink and a safety briefing from the captain. You and your partner will then enjoy lunch while admiring the famous limestone islets passing by.

The afternoon offers a perfect opportunity for engaging activities such as kayaking or swimming in the clear, emerald waters of the bay. Later, return to the cruise to relax and participate in a mini-lesson on Vietnamese cooking conducted on board. Conclude the day with a delightful dinner served under the starry night sky. The evening also presents various well-organized nightlife options, including squid fishing, watching movies, or visiting the onboard bar. Please note that specific activities may vary depending on the cruise itinerary.

Start your second day on the cruise with an early morning Tai Chi session, followed by a light breakfast as you witness the beautiful sunrise over Lan Ha Bay. Enjoy a leisurely morning, taking in the serene surroundings. You and your partner will then have brunch on board before checking out as the cruise sails back towards the pier.

In the afternoon, a shuttle bus or limousine will transfer you from the pier back to your hotel in Hanoi for a period of rest. The remainder of your last evening in Hanoi is free for you to spend as you wish, perhaps revisiting a favorite spot or enjoying a quiet dinner.

Enjoy your final breakfast at the hotel in Hanoi, savoring the last flavors of Vietnamese cuisine. Take your time to complete your check-out process, which is typically required before 12:00 PM. This morning offers a final opportunity to relax at your hotel or perhaps pick up any last-minute souvenirs from nearby shops, reflecting on the incredible journey you've experienced across Vietnam.

Following your check-out, a private driver will be arranged to provide a comfortable and timely transfer to Noi Bai International Airport for your scheduled departure flight. This concludes your enriching 10-day journey through the diverse landscapes and vibrant cultures of Vietnam. We hope you depart with cherished memories of romantic moments, cultural discoveries, and the unique experiences shared throughout your adventure, and wish you a safe onward journey.