12–DAY CHARMING VIETNAM FAMILY TOUR

ITINERARY

DAY 01:  HANOI ARRIVAL – WATER PUPPET SHOW (-/-/-)

On arrival at Noi Bai Airport, you are met by our guide and transferred to hotel for a check-in.

Water puppet show

Tonight, there will be a “water puppet show” arranged for you to attend. Water puppetry “puppets that dance on water” is a tradition that dates back as far as the 11th century when it originated in the villages of the Red River Delta area of northern Vietnam. Today’s Vietnamese water puppetry is a unique variation on the ancient Asian puppet tradition. 

O/N in Hanoi. 

DAY 02: HANOI – HALF DAY CITY WALKING TOUR IN PRIVATE (B)

Breakfast at hotel. From your hotel, we take you to visit Ho Chi Minh complex, walking around Ho Chi Minh’s Mausoleum – the final resting place of Vietnamese great father or Uncle Ho, President Ho Chi Minh’s stilt house – where he lived on and off from 1958 to 1969… The next place is One Pillar Pagoda, a group of structures consisting of a pagoda and a tower built in the middle of a square pond. Leave One Pillar Pagoda for the Temple of Literature the first college of Viet Nam dedicated to Confucian. Back to Hoan Kiem Lake and have a stopover with Ngoc Son Temple

Ho Chi Minh Mausoleum

Overnight in Hanoi. 

DAY 03: HA NOI – HA LONG BAY (B/L/D)

Breakfast at hotel

08:00  Pick up at Old Quarter area to transfer from Hanoi to Halong Bay (if the package is included transfer service).

11:30  Your first stop on arrival at Tuan Chau Island is the Cruise check-in lounge. You will have time to refresh yourself after the long drive from Hanoi and wait for checking-in.

12:15  After taken to Cruise, you will be checked in. While enjoying welcome drink, you will be introduced the itinerary and safety briefing by Cruise Manager.

13:00  You will have a delicious lunch and enjoy the stunning views when the boat cruises towards the southeast of Halong Bay, passing Fighting- Cock and Finger Islet.

14:45  Visiting Luon Cave or Pearl Farm area by bamboo boat or kayaking.

Kayaking to visit Luon Cave

16:00  You are going to Titov Island, where you can go swimming or hiking to the top for another stunning, panoramic view of the Bay

17:30  Back on board, you can enjoy Sunset party with HAPPY HOUR (from 17:30 – 19:00) – buy 2 get 1 free at bar.

18:30  If you are interested in Vietnamese cuisines, please join our traditional Vietnamese cooking class on sundeck under the experienced Chef’s guiding (or in the restaurant in case of inclement weather).

19:00  Delight in the shimmering atmosphere of thousands of stars while eating a fantastic, expertly prepared dinner.

20:30  This is the perfect time for you to relax with spa treatments or enjoy a cocktail. Besides, we provide free for squid fishing tools at reception.

Overnight at Cruise.

DAY 04: HA LONG BAY – HA NOI (B/L)

Tai Chi lesson on the sundeck

06:00  Warm up your day with a Tai Chi lesson on the sundeck with a breathtaking view as the sun rises on Halong Bay.

07:00  Light breakfast is served at the restaurant.

08:00  Your next stop is the magnificent Sung Sot Cave, one of the biggest caves in Ha Long Bay with beautiful stalactites. You will be surprised by the breathtaking panoramic view across the Bay once you exit the cave as well as the stalactites and stalagmites formed over millions of years which have taken on fascinating shapes.

09:30  Back on board, check-out and return to Tuan Chau Island

10:00  Brunch is served at the restaurant and payment

10:45  Disembark at Tuan Chau Marina, return to Hanoi.16:00: Arrive in Hanoi. End of the trip!

O/N in Hanoi.

DAY 05: HANOI FREE DAY (B)

Breakfast at hotel. Today, you are free to either relax at your hotel or wander around to explore more the beauty of Hanoi (No car & No guide) or you may find this tour interesting:

OPTIONAL TOUR 1: NINH BINH FULL DAY TOUR (HOA LU – TAM COC – MUA CAVE) – GROUP TOUR (L)

Located in Ninh Binh province 100 km southeast of Hanoi, Hoa Lu and Tam Coc are two of the most picturesque spots in all the north. For 41 years, from 968 to 1009 CE, Hoa Lu was the ancient capital of Vietnam. Nearby Tam Coc is often referred to as “Ha Long among the rice paddies.” Visitors are conveyed by rowboat along the peaceful Tam Coc stream past green fields and the feet of mountains into the mouths of caves, where they encounter new surprises, like stalactites and stalagmites that shimmer like gemstones just inches from the water.

Tam Coc

Itinerary Hoa Lu – Tam Coc – Mua Cave tour:

07.00-08.00: Our tour guide and driver pick you up at your hotel in Old Quarter. If your hotel is outside the Old Quarter area, the meet-up point will be at the Hanoi Opera House. From there, we will travel by air-conditioned bus to Ninh Binh, where we will spend the day exploring the highlights of the region.

09.30: Having a short break for 20 minutes.

10:30: Visiting Hoa Lu, the ancient capital of Vietnam during the Dinh and Le dynasties. Here, you will have the opportunity to visit the temples of the Dinh and Le kings and learn about the history and culture of the region.

12:00: Enjoying lunch at our restaurant with great local cuisine.

13:00: Departing to visit Tam Coc, also known as the “Halong Bay on land.” This area is famous for its limestone karst formations and winding waterways, which we will explore by boat. During the boat ride, you will have the chance to admire the stunning scenery and learn about the local way of life.

15.30: Hiking up Mua Cave (Mua mean Dance) with over 500 steps up to the top of Ngoa Long Moutain with a panorama view of Ninh Binh city, Ngo Dong River.

Mua Cave

17.00: Getting on the bus and going back to Ha Noi.

19.30: Arriving at your hotel in Hanoi. End of tour.

• Group Tour Price: US$ 65 per person

♦ INCLUSION

– Pick-up from hotel in the Old Quarter area

– Round trip transfer by bus

– English speaking guide.

– Buffet Lunch with Vietnamese cuisine

– 01 bottle of water per person

– Entrance fees

– Cycling through the countryside

♦ EXCLUSION

– VAT 10%

– Beverages

– Tips for tour guide and personal expenses

♦ CHILDREN RATES:
– Free of charge for children under 5 years sharing seat with parents.
– Surcharge 75% rate of adult for children (5-8 years).
– From 9 years is adults rate.

♦ What to bring:
– Appropriate clothing for the season
– A hat and sunscreen
– Comfortable clothing and footwear for walking
– Sense of fun and adventure.

♦ NOTES

– Itinerary is subject to change upon weather conditions

– Doctor and Pharmacy are not available

– Cancellation policies confirmed by Agent’s applies

– Please check the invoice from your Agent or hotel carefully, as we are unable to verbal agreements.

OPTIONAL TOUR 2: NINH BINH FULL DAY TOUR (CUC PHUONG NATIONAL PARK & VAN LONG BOAT TRIP) – PRIVATE TOUR (L)

This morning, you’ll depart from Hanoi for an adventure-packed exploration of Ninh Binh. The day begins with a scenic drive to the enchanting Cuc Phuong National Park, where you’ll be immersed in the beauty of lush landscapes, diverse flora, and vibrant wildlife. Take a leisurely hike through the park’s trails, discovering the natural wonders it has to offer.

Following a rejuvenating lunch that captures the essence of local flavors, the journey continues to the serene Van Long Nature Reserve. Here, a tranquil boat trip awaits, allowing you to drift along peaceful waters surrounded by towering limestone mountains. Keep an eye out for the rich birdlife and soak in the serenity of the surroundings. As the day draws to a close, return to the lively city of Hanoi, reflecting on the day’s adventures and perhaps venturing into the vibrant evening scene of the capital.

Inclusion: Private van, Boat Trip, English Speaking Guide, Entrance Fees, Lunch, Mineral Water.

DAY 06: HANOI – MORNING FLIGHT TO HUE – HALF DAY HUE CTY PRIVATE TOUR (B/L)

After breakfast at hotel, step back in time as you fly from the buzzing, modern city of Hanoi to Hue.

FLIGHT TRANSFER

Upon arrival at Hue Airport, our team will welcome you on arrival and transfer to check in your hotel. Take a short relax and you’re ready for half day in Hue city. Free to go shopping at Dong Ba Market – a must-visit place to gain insights into the daily life of local people here. Take a boat trip along Perfume River to visit Thien Mu pagoda – the oldest pagoda in the city, and admire its ancient architectures. Continue with a visit to the Imperial City where Nguyen Dynasty’s Emperor and royal family worked and lived from the year 1802 to 1945 including many palaces and architectures: Noon Gate, Thai Hoa Palace, Purple Forbidden City, Nine Dynastic Urns, etc. Have lunch at restaurant.

Thien Mu Pagoda

PM: Visit Minh Mang Tomb which is harmonious with natural surroundings to know more about one of the famous emperors of Nguyen Dynasty. Back to your hotel and free have dinner by your own.

Overnight in Hue.

DAY 07: HUE ½ DAY PRIVATE CITY TOUR – PRIVATE TRANSFER TO HOI AN (B/L)

AM: At 8:00 am our guide and driver pick you up at your hotel and transfer to visit Gia Long Tomb – the mausoleum of the first Emperor of Nguyen Dynasty, explore the complex and admire the beautiful natural surroundings. Countinue to enjoy rural life in Thuy Bieu village and take a cycling route around the village to discover the local life here and stop off at communal houses, ancient temples, local market and walk along shady paths to enjoy the green and peaceful sights of the village’s gardens. You will have chance to visit a local house where you can get to know how traditional incense sticks are made for using. Then visit workshop where traditional silk painting & votive paper offering are made for more experience. Have lunch at a local house.

Visiting Thuy Bieu Village

PM: Leave Hue city for Hoi An. Check in your hotel & you’ll be free to explore the beauty of Hoi An by yourselves.

Overnight in Hoi An.

DAY 08: HOI AN – MY SON HOLY LAND ½ DAY TOUR (B/L)

Breakfast at hotel.

In the morning you will pay a visit My Son Sanctuary to explore history and culture of the Ancient Champa Kingdom, and then enjoy Apsara traditional music show. Transfer to Thanh Ha ceramic village to see how local people create a piece of pottery and you will have chance to make a product under the guidance of workshop owner and receive a clay whistle called “To He” as a gift before leaving. Take a boat on Thu Bon River back to Hoi An Ancient Town. Have lunch at restaurant. Back to your hotel. Free your leisure afternoon by your own way.

Take a boat on Thu Bon River

Inclusion: Transport, English Speaking Guide, Entrance Fees, Local boat, Lunch, Mineral Water.

Overnight in Hoi An. 

DAY 09: HOI AN FREE DAY (B)

Breakfast at hotel. Today, you are free to enjoy the beauty of Hoi An by yourself or you may find this tour interesting:

OPTIONAL TOUR 1: LEARNING FISHING – COOKING CLASS – HOI AN ANCIENT TOWN & STREET FOOD PRIVATE TOUR (L)

AM: At 8:00 am our guide will welcome you at your hotel in Hoi An and transfer you to Cam Nam fishing village to learn fishing under the instruction of local people. Especially, you will practice by yourselves how to catch fish and throw fishing net into river. Then you will visit green Bay Mau water coconut forest and have chance to row basket boat to enjoy tranquil atmosphere, join in catching field crabs and explore the revolutionary base in Hoi An during Vietnam War.

Then you will be transferred to start a cycling route to Tra Que Vegetable Village 3km from Hoi An Ancient Town. You ride through peaceful villages and enjoy the beauty of countryside surrounding Hoi An. On arrival, you are welcomed with friendly smiles and special welcome drinks: “E” water or local tea. Walk around to experience the vegetable garden and have lunch at the local family.

PM: This afternoon, you will transfer to explore beautiful historical monument of Hoi An ancient town – the World Cultural Heritage. You will wander around old streets to visit this charming ancient town including the Japanese Covered Bridge, Chinese Assembly Halls, Phuoc Kien Pagoda, Sa Huynh Museum and the local market to get knowledge about the cultural and historical values of Hoi An.

Hoi An Cooking Class

At night, you will taste some among most famous local delicious foods of Hoi An including Quang Noodle or Cao Lau Noodle, rice pancake, grilled meat roll, roast meat and grilled chopped meat. These savory and spectacular dishes are most well-known specialties which you shouldn’t miss out whenever set foot in Hoi An because they are not only spectacular but also appetizing.

In addition, you will have chance to understand more about the history, tradition, decoration as well as cooking of foods while enjoying wonderful taste of them. Walking along to Phan Chu Trinh Street you will choose another delicious food “Mrs. Phuong Bread”- a popular daily sandwich of Hoi An people. After finish enjoying the local street coffee like a local here, you walk back to your hotel in the evening.

Inclusion: Transport, Basket boat and fishing tools, Bicycle & helmet, English Speaking Guide, Entrance Fees, Cooking Class, Lunch, Mineral water, Service Charge.

OPTIONAL TOUR 2: FULL DAY BANA HILLS TOUR WITH GOLDEN BRIDGE – PRIVATE TOUR (L)

AM: Travel to Bana Hills – 45 km of Hoi An. To reach the summit, you will take a cable car from the foot and enjoy spectacular sceneries of forest. On arrival you will have sightseeing and take photos at the world famous Golden Bridge, continue to flower garden Le Jardin D’amour where has many kinds of beautiful flowers and Debay Wine Cellar where are storing different wines. Take another cable car route to reach Old French villas at the height of 1138 meters for experience architecture here. Have lunch at restaurant.

PM: After lunch, you spend more time for and play games at Fantasy Theme Amusement (almost normal games and 4D Movie already included in your tour package but only some games which have reward, you will pay the fee by yourself). After that you will take cable car back the foot and transfer to return your hotel. Overnight in Hoi An.

Inclusion: Transport, English Speaking Guide, Entrance Fees, Mineral Water.

Overnight in Hoi An.

DAY 10: HOIAN – DANANG– FLIGHT TO HO CHI MINH CITY (B)

Breakfast at hotel. You have free time to have more experience in HOIAN until be transferred to the Danang airport to catch a flight to Ho Chi Minh city.

On arrival at Tan San Nhat Airport, you are met by our guide and transferred to hotel. The bustling Ho Chi Minh City, still called Saigon by many locals, is a center of commerce, finance, culture and tourism in Vietnam. This metropolis, contradiction of its northern counterpart, is crowded with bikes and motorbikes, excited by numerous shopping areas and sidewalk cafes. (If time permits) we stroll around the down town to explore the different local ways of life.

Tonight you might take interest in the following options on request (Saigon Dinner Cruise or Vespa Tour or Food Tour)

O/N in Ho Chi Minh City.

DAY 11: HO CHI MINH CITY – MEKONG FULL-DAY (MY THO – BEN TRE) GROUP TOUR (B, L)

Breakfast at hotel.

Leaving the hustle and bustle of Ho Chi Minh City and start your trip to depart for My Tho, the town lies on the left side of the Mekong River. Upon arrival, visit Vinh Trang pagoda which sated back to the late 19th century. Then boarding the sampan and cruising down the river around the four beautiful islands known as Dragon, Unicorn, Phoenix, and Tortoise islands.

Stop over at Unicorn Island, go walking around country lane and seeing orchards, enjoy tropical fruits, folk song music which performed by the local people. Visit the fruit plantation.

Riding a hand-rowed sampan through Thoi Son canal and treat yourself in the beauty of the countryside, visit the family business, visit honey-bee farm, enjoy honey tea and coconut candy workshop.

Have lunch at local restaurant. Break time.

In the afternoon, time for cycling around the Tan Thach village, meet the local villagers to experience the local daily life in the Mekong delta. Hammock relaxing and enjoy cool breeze for those can’t join the cycling trip. Return to Ho Chi Minh City.

O/N in Ho Chi Minh City.

DAY 12:  HO CHI MINH CITY – DEPARTURE (B)

Free until transfer to the airport for onward flight.

End of Services!!!

=> Supplement for the airfare from Hanoi to Hue: from 100USD per ticket

=> Supplement for the airfare from Danang to Ho Chi Minh city: from 100USD per ticket

( The airfare is subject to change without prior notice.)

3-Star hotels in use:

• Hanoi: Silk Queen Grand (Deluxe room) or similar ones. 

• Ha Long Bay: Mila Cruise (Deluxe room) or similar ones.
  Hue: Rosaleen Hue hotel (Superior room) or similar ones.
  Hoi An (Ancient Town): Mulberry Collection Silk Eco (Superior room) or similar ones. 

• Ho Chi Minh city (Saigon): Avanti (Deluxe City view) or similar ones.
  
  4-Star hotels in use:

• Hanoi: Mina Hotel (Deluxe room) or similar ones. 

• Ha Long Bay: Athena Cruise (Executive cabin) or similar ones.

• Hue: Moonlight Hue hotel (Deluxe City View room) or similar ones.

• Hoi An (Beach): Hoi An Beach Resort (Superior room) or similar ones. 

• Ho Chi Minh city (Saigon): Odys Boutique Saigon (Junior Deluxe room) or similar ones.