Legends of Northern Vietnam and Da Nang Beach Retreat

Enjoy a full breakfast and meet your guide starting to uncover the history and spirit of Hanoi.

Begin with a visit to Ho Chi Minh Mausoleum, the resting place of Vietnam's beloved national leader. You will have a chance to view the embalmed body of President Ho Chi Minh, then walk down to the peaceful garden and visit the stilt house and the Presidential Palace, where he lived and worked from 1954 to 1969

Pause at the One Pillar Pagoda, a lotus-shaped sanctuary that has stood as a symbol of purity for centuries, before moving on to the Museum of Ethnology that you will admire interactive exhibits reveal the vibrant traditions of Vietnam’s 54 ethnic groups.

Break for a delightful lunch at the local restaurant, featuring authentic Vietnamese flavors

This afternoon, you will head to Tran Quoc Pagoda, the oldest pagoda in Hanoi, beautifully reflected in the waters of West Lake, blending ancient architecture with a serene lakeside setting. At the Temple of Literature, Vietnam’s first university, stroll shaded courtyards and ancient pavilions that offering a glimpse into the depth of the Vietnamese people's studious spirit that stretches back nearly a thousand years.

Conclude at the thought-provoking Hoa Lo Prison, once used by French colonists and later by North Vietnam, where exhibits bring to life powerful stories of endurance and resilience.

Return you to the hotel, marking the end of the city tour. The rest of the afternoon is free at your leisure until evening, when your guide picks you up for the exciting street food experience.

Eat as you go, walking through the maze of bustling streets. Try iconic options include pho (noodle soup with beef or chicken) or the famed Hanoi dishes such as Bun Cha (a grilled pork and noodle dish) and local but world famous desserts such as banh mi (Vietnamese sandwich), sweet treats like che (dessert soup) and goi cuon (fresh spring rolls), and watch as the skilled chefs demonstrate how this tasty dish is put together. Back to the hotel. Overnight at the hotel.

NOTE:

• The Ho Chi Minh Complex is closed on Mondays to Fridays, and from June to August. Only exterior photography is allowed during these periods
• The Vietnamese Women’s Museum is an alternative to the Vietnam Ethnology Museum, which is closed on Mondays
• Alternative dishes may be served depending on the restaurant’s availability.

After finishing your breakfast and checking out of the hotel, you’ll head out on a comfortable drive to Halong Bay, about 200 kilometers from Hanoi. Once you arrive at the port, step aboard your cruise, where the friendly crew will greet you with a cool welcome drink. A delicious lunch will be served as the boat sails through towering limestone formations and emerald waters.

In the afternoon, immerse yourself in optional activities like exploring a local fishing village, visiting the majestic caves and islands in the bays, or thrilling water activities, depending on the cruise's itinerary. As the day winds down, return to the ship and relax on the sundeck to take part in a Vietnamese cooking class or in your cabin. Later, enjoy a cozy dinner on board and fall asleep to the gentle sway of the bay beneath you.

Wake early to the gentle light of dawn and enjoy light breakfast on board as Ha Long Bay’s limestone pillars emerge from the morning mist.

Continue your cruise through iconic formations, passing secluded coves and unique islets that define this UNESCO World Heritage landscape.

Following check-out, savor a leisurely brunch before returning to the harbor. From here, travel back to Hanoi, arriving mid-afternoon. Enjoy some free time at your own pace before transferring to the airport for your flight to Da Nang.

Upon arrival in Da Nang, meet your driver for a private transfer to your hotel in Hoi An for check-in. The rest of the evening is yours to relax and settle into tranquil ancient trading center in Vietnam. Dinner is not included.

Spend the day at your own pace, soaking in the charm of Hoi An’s UNESCO-listed Old Town. You might wander through lantern-lit streets lined with heritage buildings, browse bustling local markets, or relax at a riverside café and watch the world drift by. For a touch of the sea, cycle or take a short drive to An Bang Beach for sun and sand. The day is yours to indulge in shopping, photography, or simply enjoying the laid-back rhythm of this historic port town.

At around 07:30 - 08:00 AM, your guide and minivan will pick you up from your hotel for a scenic drive to Ba Na Hills. Please finish breakfast and check out processes before the journey. Upon arrival, you’ll board the renowned cable car system, one of Southeast Asia’s longest and most modern, offering panoramic views of Da Nang’s coastline.

Begin at the Golden Bridge, a surreal walkway cradled by giant stone hands, then wander through the romantic Jardin D’Amour Gardens and pause at Linh Ung Pagoda, marveling at the serene Goddess of Mercy statue that watches peacefully over the hills.

As the cable car takes you higher, the charming French Village comes into view. This whimsical setting offers not only lively street performances but also quiet corners like the Nine-Floor Goddess Shrine. After enjoying a buffet lunch, you will board the Lava Train for a fun ride to new highlights such as Helios Waterfall and the Moon Kingdom. In the afternoon, thrill-seekers can play over 90 exciting games at Fantasy Park before returning to the city by cable car.

• Includes: A two-way hotel pickup and drop off, English-speaking tourguide, return cable cars, buffet lunch Golden Bridge, Le Jardin D’amour, Fantasy Park, Moon Caste, French Village,...A bottle of water
• Trip excludes: Special services in Fantasy Park: Wax Statue Museum, France Wine Cellar entrance & wine, Roller Coaster game, climbing game, or some games with prizes, 10D movie, personal expenses and services not mentioned above

Wake up to the gentle sound of waves and enjoy a slow-paced morning at your hotel. Spend the day however you wish, sunbathing on Da Nang’s golden sands, cooling off in the turquoise waters, or simply unwinding by the pool with a good book. Meals are in your own arrangement.

Another full day of relaxation awaits. Stroll along the shoreline at sunrise, indulge in a soothing spa treatment, or explore the city’s vibrant café culture. For the more adventurous, optional water activities and day trips can also be arranged. Meals on your own.

Your final day at leisure in Da Nang is yours to enjoy at your own pace. Soak up the laid-back coastal vibe, try fresh seafood at a beachfront restaurant, or capture the sunset over My Khe Beach as a perfect finale to your seaside retreat. Meals on your own.

Savor your last morning in Da Nang with breakfast at the hotel and a few quiet moments by the beach. The room remains at your disposal until noon. When it’s time, you’ll be transferred to Da Nang International Airport for your journey home or onward adventure. Meals on your own. End of services, Vietnamtour.co.za wishes you safe travels and hope to welcome you again on another adventure.