Best of Vietnam 9 Days 8 Nights

Upon your arrival at Noi Bai International Airport at 13:00, you’ll be warmly greeted and privately transferred to your hotel to drop off your luggage. Without delay, you’ll start exploring Hanoi, beginning with Tran Quoc Pagoda—the city’s oldest Buddhist temple set on the peaceful West Lake. Then, visit the historic Hoa Lo Prison, famously known as the “Hanoi Hilton,” where American POWs, including John McCain, were once held. By late afternoon, return to the hotel for check-in and a brief rest. In the evening, a reservation will be made for you at 18:30 at TUNG Dining, one of Hanoi’s finest culinary destinations for an unforgettable dinner experience.

Start the morning early by heading to Hoan Kiem Lake, joining locals in Tai Chi or aerobics—an authentic slice of Hanoi life. Continue to a hidden café to sip Vietnam’s famous egg coffee or a strong iced brew. Explore the Ho Chi Minh Complex including his Mausoleum and Stilt House, and admire the One Pillar Pagoda. Visit the gothic-style St. Joseph’s Cathedral before entering a traditional “tube house,” providing a rare glimpse into local living spaces. Gain deeper cultural insight at the Vietnam Museum of Ethnology with its comprehensive exhibits on Vietnam’s 54 ethnic minorities. After lunch, enjoy a 45-minute cyclo ride through Hanoi’s bustling Old Quarter, followed by coffee beside the railway tracks—a truly unique local scene. By evening, embark on a vintage Vespa food tour, exploring Hanoi’s backstreets and culinary hotspots. From railway-side wine tastings to Pho Cuon rolling demonstrations and a final stop at a jazz club near the Opera House, the night offers a perfect fusion of food, music, and culture.

After breakfast, depart for Ha Long Bay and board the luxurious Grand Pioneer Cruise around 11:30. As the boat sets sail, enjoy a welcome drink and take in views of famous formations like the Kissing Rocks and Dragon Rock. Savor a delicious lunch onboard before arriving at Thien Canh Son Cave, where you can kayak or relax on the beach. Later, anchor at Cap La for sunset views and a Sunset Party on the sundeck. In the evening, indulge in a gourmet dinner prepared by skilled chefs and enjoy onboard entertainment.

Wake early to witness the sunrise over the bay. After breakfast, choose between visiting the awe-inspiring Sung Sot Cave or enjoying panoramic views from Titop Island. Following a brunch buffet, disembark at 11:00 and return to Hanoi. In the afternoon, board your flight to Nha Trang. Upon arrival, transfer to your resort to relax in your Ocean View Pool Villa.

Depart early for a diving adventure to Hon Mun Island with Rainbow Divers, a certified PADI 5-star IDC center. Enjoy two dives in one of Vietnam’s best coral reef environments under the guidance of Western-trained professionals. Return to the resort in the early afternoon for leisure time by the beach or pool. This activity is especially tailored for certified divers.

At 9:00 AM, you’ll be picked up and transferred to I-Resort Hot Spa for a full-day wellness experience. In a private VIP bungalow, enjoy mud bathing and soaking in mineral-rich hot springs. Relish tropical fruits, a private lunch, and a 45-minute body massage. Access the waterfall and water park facilities for added fun. Return to the resort around 3:00 PM, refreshed and recharged. Note: Adequate surface interval is observed after your dive to ensure safe air travel.

Fly to Ho Chi Minh City in the morning and meet your guide for a visit to the Cu Chi Tunnels. Discover the ingenious network of underground passages that played a vital role during the Vietnam War. Afterward, return to the city and check in at your hotel. If time permits, visit colonial-era landmarks such as Notre Dame Cathedral and the Central Post Office. End the day with a suggested dinner at Vietnam House Restaurant.

Travel two hours to Ben Tre, known as the “land of coconuts.” Witness the crafting of coconut products and traditional brick making. Cruise the Mekong by sampan, explore canals by rowing boat, and travel local village roads by Xe Lam or bicycle. Visit honey farms, sample tropical fruits, and engage in hands-on activities at cottage industries producing rice paper, candies, and rice wine. Enjoy an authentic home-cooked lunch with a local family before cruising back to My Tho. Return to Ho Chi Minh City by late afternoon.

Spend your final morning exploring the city’s historical and cultural highlights. Visit the Burning Monk Memorial Statue and vibrant local markets, including the flower and fabric markets. Tour the powerful War Remnants Museum, home to sobering exhibits and war memorabilia. Enjoy lunch at a local restaurant before transferring to the airport for your departure flight. Tour ends!