Chalo North and Center Vietnam

Timeline:

Upon the arrival, you are met at the Noi Bai airport and transferred to the hotel by our driver (early check in is included) and then transfer you back to hotel. Relaxing at hotel!

• 13h45: Our Tour guide and our private car will pick you up at your hotel
• 14h00 – 14h15: Visit Temple of Literature – the first university of Vietnam. The Temple of Literature (Van Mieu Quoc Tu Giam) is one of the most attractive tourist spots in Northern Vietnam. The Temple of Literature was founded in 1070.
• 15h15: Keep going to visit Hoa Lo Prison. The prison was built by the French, from 1886 to 1901. When Vietnam was still a part of French Indochina. The French called the prison Maison Centrale. The prison was called “A Hell on Earth” and now the prison is like a war museum for those who want to understand more about the war against France of Vietnamese people.
• 16h30: You will continue to visit train street, take many beautiful pictures by yourselves or with your friends. After that you will enjoy one glass of egg coffee or some drinks and waiting the train which is passing. It is one of the most exciting experience when you visit Hanoi. Our driver and guide will take you back to the Hotel and check-in. Overnight at the hotel in Hanoi.

Suggestions:

Places:

Here are some addresses for iconic and interesting places tourists can visit in free time after tour:

• Hanoi offers a unique sight: houses built right next to railway tracks. The train to Ho Chi Minh passes through a few times daily, and you can either watch it pass or relax at a nearby cafe (Hanoi train track cafe – No.47 alley 224, Le Duan street). The track is about 3km from Cafe Giang, a 30-minute walk, or you can take a taxi.
• Ho Chi Minh Mausoleum (2 Hung Vuong, Dien Bien, Ba Dinh), located in front of Ba Dinh Square, is the final resting place of Ho Chi Minh, Vietnam’s revered leader.
• Dong Xuan Market (Dong Xuan, Hoan Kiem), Hanoi’s largest indoor market, spans four floors and offers a glimpse into Vietnamese market culture. It’s a great place to shop for souvenirs.
• For a relaxing end to your day, consider watching the sunset at West Lake, a larger lake than Hoan Kiem Lake. Visit Tran Quoc Pagoda, the oldest in Vietnam, on the east bank of the lake, or explore Quan Thanh Temple nearby. If you’re still looking for something to do, the water puppet show is a great option for families.
• For families visiting Hanoi, a water puppet show near Hoan Kiem Lake (57b Dinh Tien Hoang Street) is a great option after sunset. The show features traditional Vietnamese music followed by puppets narrating legends about local life, like farming and fishing. The puppets are made of lacquered wood and manipulated by puppeteers behind a screen. You’ll see characters like water fairies, dragons, and fish. Tickets start at 100,000 VND.

Foods and Drinks:

• Pho Gia Truyen Bat Dan (49 Bat Dan, Cua Dong, Hoan Kiem) has been serving Pho Bo since the 1960s. Approximate price starts from VND 35,000 per bowl.
• Egg Coffee is a unique coffee drink with an egg yolk. Try it at Cafe Giang (39 Nguyen Huu Huan, Hang Bac, Hoan Kiem) or Cafe Dinh (13 Dinh Tien Hoang, Hang Trong, Hoan Kiem). Approximate price is about VND 25,000 per cup.
• Bun Cha Hang Quat (74 Hang Quat, Hang Gai, Hoan Kiem)
• Cha Ca or pan-fried fish is a Northern Vietnamese speciality that was one of my favourites while in Vietnam. Try it at 19-21-2D Duong Thanh, Hoan Kiem.
• Bia Hoi, Hanoi’s fresh draught beer, is made daily and only available until it runs out. Head to Bia Hoi Junction, at the corner of Ta Hien and Luong Ngoc Quyen streets in the Old Quarter, for a taste of this local favorite.

Inclusions:

• Accommodation: Hotel in Hanoi with early check in
• Meals: Breakfast
• Tour Guide: English speaking guide for tour
• Entrance fee: Yes
• Transfer: Airport private transfer/ Private car for tour

Read More: Hanoi City Tour: The Best Hanoi Tours to do

Timeline:

• 7h30 – 7h45: Our tour guide will pick you up from your hotel. We take you to Ninh Binh province which is far from Hanoi city about 120km.
• 9h30 : Have a short break for 20 minutes to relax.
• 10h30: The first destination in this trip is visit Hoa Lu ancient capital. This is the first capital of Vietnam. Coming to visit Hoa Lu, you will learn about why the capital was moved to Hanoi nowadays. You are impressed on an outstanding architecture when entering temples of King Dinh and King Le, the first and second emperors of ancient Vietnam, built in the 17 century. Try to feel ancient atmospheres in Hoa Lu ancient capital.
• 11h45: Have buffet lunch in the restaurant with a lot of local foods goat meat, fried rice… Vegetarian food is always available in the buffet lunch.
• 13h00: Visit Trang An which was recognized by UNESCO as The world Heritage Site in 2014. Trang An has the wonderful tunnel cave system so that Kong’s Movie Group chose this place for New Version of Kong in 2016 – “ Skull Island “. Boat trip to visit Trang An to see the amazing beauty of this landscape with many caves such as: Sang Cave (Light Cave), Toi Cave (Dark Cave), Nau Ruou Cave (Cooking Wine Cave), green river and natural view.
• 15h30: Get on the bus to go to Mua Cave (Dancing Cave). Walk up almost 500 steps, you can reach to the top of Lying Dragon Mountain, have an amazing panoramic view of Tam Coc from here.
• 16h30 – 17h00: Get on the Bus to return to Hanoi.
• 19h30: Arrive to Hanoi and get drop off at the Hotel. Overnight in Hanoi.

Suggestions:

Places:

• Explore Thung Nham Bird Valley in the early morning or late afternoon. In the early morning, flocks of birds disperse to search for food, so if you want to watch birds, the ideal time is midday or in the afternoon before sunset. This is because birds will return to their nests to feed and rest at this time.
• Discover Hoa Lu Ancient Capital: Explore the ruins of Vietnam’s first capital, Hoa Lu, and learn about its rich history. Discover ancient temples, palaces, and remnants of this once-thriving city.
• Visit Bai Dinh Pagoda: Explore Vietnam’s largest Buddhist temple complex, known for its colossal Buddha statue, ornate architecture, and peaceful atmosphere.
• Experience Traditional Village Life: Immerse yourself in the local culture by visiting traditional villages like the Van Long Village, where you can learn about local crafts, farming practices, and daily life.
• Phat Diem Cathedral: Visit this unique church built in the 19th century, a blend of European and Vietnamese architectural styles.

Foods and Drinks:

Ninh Binh offers a unique culinary experience with a range of specialties:

• Ninh Binh Crispy Rice: This record-breaking dish features fragrant glutinous rice, mountain goat meat, and fresh vegetables. It’s a great souvenir.
• Mountain Goat: Prized for its tender, flavorful meat, Ninh Binh’s mountain goats are featured in various dishes and are also enjoyed as a delicious sausage.
• Kim Son Wine: Made with rice and water, this potent brew is often infused with unique ingredients like snakes, geckos, and herbs.
• Tam Diep Mountain Snails: These snails, harvested from the mountains, offer a unique sweet and aromatic flavor.
• Sticky Rice with Ant’s Eggs: This local specialty from Nho Quan features ant eggs carefully washed, seasoned, and fried, creating a delicious topping for sticky rice.
• Ninh Binh Bun Cha Quat: A twist on the classic Hanoi Bun Cha, this dish features a large, juicy piece of grilled minced meat served with sour vegetables and a sweet and sour fish sauce.

Inclusions:

• Accommodation: Hotel in Hanoi
• Meals: Breakfast, lunch
• Tour guide: English speaking guide
• Transfer: Group car

Timeline:

• 8h15 – 8h50: Get picked up at the hotel to depart for Halong Bay. Our journey follows Hanoi – Haiphong- Tuan Chau Highway (about a 3 hour drive)
• 12h00: Arrive at Tuan Chau Harbor, get on 5 STARS LUXURY CRUISE with our crew’s warmly welcome. Then start the excursion to discovery the beauty of the world heritage site
• 12h30: Enjoy a special lunch with more than 30 dishes on the boat .While having lunch, the boat will passing by the beautiful scenery on both sides with thousands of limestone such as Fighting Chicken and Incense Burner Islets – 2 symbols of Halong Bay
• 14h00: Arrive at Bo Hon Island, and you will visit Sung Sot Cave – the most beautiful cave with a lot of stalagmites and stalactites
• 14h45: Do kayaking or bamboo boat through Luon Cave to discover the beautiful lagoon.
• 15h15: Visit TiTop Island with its sandy beach. You can go swimming here or trek up to the top of the island for sightseeing all of Halong bay
• 16h00: Back to the boat for the sunset party (with wine, tea, fruits, and biscuits) meanwhile the boat is cruising back to the harbor
• 17h45: Arrive back at the harbor. Get on the bus and return to Hanoi
• 20h30: Get dropped off at the hotel.

Suggestions:

Places:

• Explore the diverse landscapes of Cat Ba Island, with its rugged mountains, lush forests, and stunning coastal views.
• Visit the Quang Ninh Museum: This is a great option to learn about the history and culture of Quang Ninh province. The museum exhibits many valuable artifacts and artworks, giving you a deeper understanding of the formation and development of this region.
• Have dinner on a cruise: This is a romantic and enjoyable experience. You can enjoy a delicious dinner and admire the view of Ha Long City at night from the cruise.
• Explore Tuan Chau Marina or Sun World Ha Long.
• Squid fishing in Ha Long Bay is a unique experience blending cultural immersion with fresh seafood. At night, you’ll learn traditional fishing techniques, enjoy the peaceful bay under a starry sky, and maybe even catch your own dinner. Experienced guides will share their knowledge, making it a fun and immersive experience perfect for those seeking a taste of local life and a delicious meal.

Foods and Drinks:

• Banh Gat Gu (Nodding Cake): A long, soft rice flour roll filled with pork and fried onions, dipped in a tangy fish sauce. Find it at the Ha Long night market.
• Ngan (Austriella Corrugata): This local shellfish is enjoyed steamed or stir-fried with spices.
• Oysters: Ha Long Bay is known for its fresh oysters, commonly steamed, grilled, or fried.
• Cha Muc (Grilled Chopped Squid): Grilled chopped squid seasoned with spices, often served with a dipping sauce.
• Sa Sung (Sipunculus Nudus): A marine worm, commonly stir-fried with ginger, garlic, and chili.
• Sam (Horseshoe Crab): Often enjoyed in stews or stir-fried dishes.
• Tien Yen Hill Chicken: Naturally raised chickens with tender, sweet meat, often enjoyed boiled with a special sauce.
• Bun Be Be (Noodle with Mantis Shrimp): A signature noodle dish featuring mantis shrimp, vermicelli noodles, vegetables, and flavorful broth.
• Halong Tapioca Yogurt: A refreshing dessert with tapioca pearls and creamy yogurt.
• Ha Long draft beer is a local favorite, known for its refreshing taste and light, crisp texture.

Inclusions:

• Accommodation: Hotel in Hanoi
• Meals: Breakfast, Lunch
• Tour Guide: English speaking guide
• Transfer: Limousine shuttle bus

Timeline:

• After breakfast, you will be free until transfer to the airport to take flight to Danang. Upon Danang arrival, transfer to hotel for check in. Overnight in Danang.

• 12h00 – 12h15: The van and tour guide will pick you up at your hotel. Start your adventure with Cam Thanh Coconut for being a fisherman. At Cam Thanh Coconut Village, you will experience about learning traditional fishing techniques and how to row unique Vietnamese bamboo basket boats while exploring the tranquil coconut palm waterways of the past war. On this tour, we provide authentic social and cultural insight into the local way of life in Vietnam. Furthermore, you will take part in some hands-on activities which are fun, safe, and interested are suitable for everybody.
• About 14.30 pm: Visit to the next destination to Hoi An Old Town.

• • Go to the Phuc Kien Chinese Assembly Hall, a colorful mélange of bright gates, dragon statues, and elaborate rooftops. Get an introduction to ancestor worship while visiting the family altar and watching local devotees making offerings.
  • You will see remarkably well-preserved old houses Phung Hung Ancient House or Tan Ky Ancient House that have withstood 200 years of weather and war. Learn about the prosperous merchants who used to live in these homes, trading with buyers from all around the world. Especially, you will enjoy art shows at Hoi An Traditional Performing Arts House.
  • Make a stop at the Japanese Bridge. The bridge spans a small waterway and was constructed more than 400 years ago to connect the Japanese community with the Chinese who lived on the other side of the water. Admire the carvings and paintings inside the bridge, learning about their symbolism and cultural significance.
  • Additionally, visit some of Hoi An’s well-known handicraft shops and artwork galleries. Discover smaller laneways and local neighborhoods, gaining a better appreciation of Hoi An’s endless charm.
  • Dinner with Hoi An specialty food.

• 18h00: Enjoy your time with the boat ride on Hoai River and release the flower lanterns to pray for the best lucks to you and your family. You will immerse yourself in the fanciful space of the lantern street. Free your time with the night market and enjoy the shimmering space of Hoi An.
• 19h00: After the meal, we will go back to your places in Danang. Overnight in Danang.

Suggestions:

Places:

• Tailor Shops: Get a custom-made outfit or alterations from Hoi An’s skilled tailors.
• Thu Bon River: Enjoy scenic boat trips along the river, passing through countryside and villages. Experience Hoi An’s traditional culture with a lantern boat ride on the Thu Bon River. Release a beautiful flower-shaped lantern onto the water at night, creating a mesmerizing spectacle of glowing lights. Enjoy stunning views of the city as the river fills with lanterns.
• Cua Dai Beach: Relax on the pristine beach, swim, and enjoy water sports.
• Tra Que Vegetable Village: Experience traditional farming methods and learn about organic vegetable production.

Foods and Drinks:

• Cao Lau (pork rice noodles): A unique noodle dish with a savory broth, a local specialty.
• Chicken Rice (Com Ga): A Vietnamese twist on this Southeast Asian classic, featuring shredded chicken, fragrant yellow rice, papaya salad, and flavorful chicken broth.
• Banh Mi (Vietnamese baguette sandwich): Try the legendary Banh Mi at Banh Mi Phuong, declared the best in Hoi An by Anthony Bourdain.
• Banh Uot Thit Nuong (grilled pork spring rolls): DIY dish with grilled lemongrass pork skewers, soft rice paper, fresh vegetables, and a savory peanut sauce.
• White Rose Dumplings: Delicate dumplings filled with pork or shrimp.
• Hoi An Fried Wonton: Crispy wontons filled with various ingredients.
• Seafood: Fresh seafood at restaurants and street food stalls.
• Drinks: Local favorites like “cafe sua da” (Vietnamese iced coffee), “chè” (sweet dessert soup), and fresh fruit juices.

Inclusions:

• Accommodation: Hotel in Danang
• Meals: Breakfast, Dinner
• Tour guide: English speaking guide
• Transfer: Group car/ Airport private transfer

Read More: “Danang Tour: The Best Da Nang tours and things to do“

Timeline:

• 7h30: We pick you up at the hotel and start to visit Ba Na Hills –also known as the second DaLat in Central Vietnam.
• 9h30: You will be carried to the peak by cable car system that won 4 World’s Records (longest one-wire sling; the longest distance between each station; the longest unpatched wire; and finally the heaviest cable roll), admire the epic view and enjoy the fresh air here.
• 10h00: Explore Golden bridge (that sits 1,400 meters above sea level) – an altitude which creates the illusion of a silk strip hiding in the clouds above Da Nang. Walking around and taking photos at Le Jardin D’Amour (the Flower Garden of Love), Linh Ung Pagoda, with 27m – height Shakyamuni statue on 6m – height lotus brings tourists peaceful feeling as visiting this place. Enjoy the panorama of Da Nang city. The next destination of your trip in Ba Na is French Village. You will feel free to visit the holy places in Ba Na: the Linh Tu Temple, the Temple of Mother Nature, the Belfry, the Phong Tu Tower, or the French village. From this area, all the sceneries of Ba Na – Quang Nam’s nature is below your feet.
• 12h00: You will take a rest and have buffet as lunch in restaurant. After lunch, you can experience many thrilling rides and games such as slide-way, love wheel, fire race and ghosts’ house in Fantasy Park – the world-class indoor amusement park. Join in Fantasy Park by Walking in Fairy Forest, discovering Dinosaur Park, playing 5D wild west, enjoying 4D death race ride, watch 3D mega 360 degrees…
• 15h:00 – 15h30: We say good bye to Ba Na Hills.
• 17h00 – 17h30: Come back your hotel and then transfer to airport to take flight back home. Trip ends.

Inclusions:

• Accommodation: No
• Meals: Breakfast, Lunch
• Tour guide: English speaking guide for tour
• Transfer: Group car/ Private airport transfer

Read More: Vietnam Package Travel