There will never be a better time to experience the emergence of Vietnam. We start in bustling Saigon (Ho Chi Minh City) and head for the tranquil hill station of Dalat. In the old port town of Hoi An, Portuguese, Chinese and Japanese influences from bygone eras are reflected in the charming architecture. It’s also an ideal place for shopping or having a silk outfit tailored. At Hue, we visit the crumbling ruins of the Purple Forbidden City and explore an elaborate tomb of one of the former emperors. A trip on the famous Reunification Express takes us to delightful Hanoi, before we complete our journey at Halong Bay with a cruise amongst 3000 limestone pinnacles.
You can also start your Vietnam experience two days earlier and visit the bustling and colourful Mekong Delta. See 'Itinerary Variation' in the Detailed Itinerary for further information.
Itinerary
| Day 1 |
(Sun) Arrive in Saigon and transfer to hotel. |
| Days 2-3 |
Visit Cu Chi tunnels. Free day to explore Saigon. |
| Days 4-5 |
Drive to Dalat. Optional visit to tribal villages. |
| Day 6 |
Drive to Nha Trang. |
| Day 7 |
Full day boat cruise around islands, with swimming and snorkelling. |
| Day 8 |
Drive through Vietnamese countryside to Quy Nhon. |
| Days 9-10 |
Stop at My Lai, then drive to Hoi An. Walking tour of Old Town and free day to explore. |
| Days 11-12 |
Drive to Hue via Marble Mountain and China Beach. Visit Citadel and Forbidden Purple City, Perfume River cruise. Overnight train to Hanoi. |
| Days 13-14 |
Explore Hanoi, including city tour and lunch at KOTO restaurant. |
| Days 15-16 |
Drive to Halong Bay. Boat cruise on bay, staying onboard overnight. Return to Hanoi. |
| Day 17 |
Trip ends in Hanoi this morning (Tue). |