Essences of Vietnam: Hanoi, Natural Wonders, and Halong Bay

Tour overview

Embark on a captivating journey through the Essences of Vietnam tour. Explore the vibrant city of Hanoi, visiting historical sites like the Literature Temple and Hoan Kiem Lake. Experience the breathtaking landscapes of Hoa Lu and Tam Coc, cruising through limestone caves and rice paddy fields. Indulge in the natural beauty of Halong Bay with an overnight cruise, enjoying delicious meals and activities like squid fishing. Conclude the tour with cherished memories of Vietnam’s rich culture, stunning scenery, and warm hospitality.

Included

Accommodation as indicated above twin including all taxes and breakfast (normally check-in time: 14.00hrs & check- out time: 12.00hrs)
Ground transportation in air-conditioned vehicle
Indicated meals (B=Breakfast, L=Lunch, D=Dinner)
Accommodation at hotel as mentioned or similar ones
Mineral water during excursion 2bottles/Pax/Day
English speaking guides during the
All services mentioned in the program
Visa approval letter

Not Included

Personal expenses and beverage
Visa stamp fee 25$
Travel insurance
Items of a personal nature
Airfares (international and domestic) and airport tax
International and domestic flights including airport tax + Other meals and services not mentio
International and domestic flights including airport tax
Other meals and services not mentioned below.
Tipping for guide and driver compulsary • 2-6 pax: 5USD/pax/day; • 7-10 pax: 4USD/pax/day; • 11 + : $3/pax/day

Day 1 - Arrival in Hanoi and Exploring the City

Upon your arrival at Noi Bai International Airport, you will be warmly welcomed and transferred to the city. Drop off your luggage at the hotel and enjoy a delicious breakfast at a local restaurant. Begin your sightseeing with a visit to the Literature Temple, Vietnam's first university. Next, explore Hoan Kiem Lake, also known as Restored Sword Lake, and pay a visit to Ngoc Son Temple. Experience the charm of Hanoi's Old Quarter by taking an electric-car tour. Later, check-in at your hotel and enjoy the evening at your leisure in Hanoi. Overnight stay in Hanoi.

Day 2 - Hanoi, Hoa Lu, and Tam Coc Excursion

After breakfast at the hotel, your guide and driver will accompany you to Ninh Binh. Discover Hoa Lu, the ancient capital of Vietnam during the Dinh and Le dynasties. Enjoy the stunning scenery of vibrant green rice fields punctuated by limestone outcrops. Take a leisurely ninety-minute sampan cruise through the caves of Tam Coc, a picturesque countryside in Vietnam. Hoa Lu showcases the ruins of the former capital, before the Imperial city was moved to Hanoi. Depart for Tam Coc, a UNESCO site renowned for its rainforest-covered mountains, valleys, water channels, and limestone cliffs. After lunch, embark on a traditional sampan boat to explore the breathtaking rice paddy landscapes and visit the three famous grottoes: Hang Ca, Hang Giua, and Hang Cuoi. In the late afternoon, return to Hanoi and enjoy a relaxing evening. Overnight stay in Hanoi.

Day 3 - Halong Bay Cruise

Start your day with breakfast at the hotel, followed by check-out. Transfer to Tuan Chau and embark on a cruise ship. After a short briefing on the cruise itinerary and safety regulations, enjoy a delicious lunch on board as you sail through Halong Bay or Lan Ha Bay. Visit a pearl farm and continue the boat trip, admiring the stunning natural beauty of the bay. As the sun sets, the cruise will anchor for the night. Savor a delightful dinner prepared by the talented chef, and afterward, you can try squid fishing or enjoy movies in your cabin. Overnight on the cruise.

Day 4 - Halong Bay to Hanoi

Wake up early for a Tai Chi session on the sundeck to energize yourself for the day. Enjoy a light breakfast with freshly baked pastries, coffee, and tea at the restaurant. Continue your exploration of the bay, followed by a brunch served on the boat. Check out of your room around 10:00-10:15. The cruise will return to Tuan Chau Marina, where you will disembark and be transferred back to Hanoi. Arrive in Hanoi and spend the rest of the day at your leisure. Overnight stay in Hanoi.