Hanoi and HaLong cruise to Ho Chi Minh 7 days

From: ₹492 4-star hotels

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Duration

7 Days

Tour Type

Daily Tour

Group Size

Unlimited

Languages

English

About this tour

Hanoi, Ninh Binh, Halong Bay, Ho Chi Minh City, My Tho, Ben Tre

Embark on a journey commencing in Hanoi and concluding in Ho Chi Minh City! This 7-day tour package will guide you through the cultural wonders of Hanoi, Vietnam, and five additional captivating destinations within the country. The itinerary encompasses accommodation in well-appointed hotels, the expertise of a knowledgeable guide, meals, and various other inclusions for a comprehensive and enriching travel experience.

Included/Excluded

* Throughout the tour, guests will be accommodated exclusively in 4- and 5-star hotels.
* Accommodation based on twin or double sharing room
* All transfers and road transport in modern, air-conditioned vehicles if specified in the program
* Meals as mentioned in the program. B-Breakfast, Br-Brunch, L-Lunch, D-Dinner
* Your tour guide is a professional, fully trained employee of VTP Travel
* Entrance fees if specified in the program
* Airfares, Cruise, Train, Sleeper bus if specified in the program.

* Compulsory tips for tour guide and driver
* Meals not mentioned in the program
* Single Supplement. Early check-in and late check-out. Hotel/Room upgrade
* Drinks, personal expenses and any services not clearly mentioned in the program
* Surcharge for the festive seasons
* Applicable Government Taxes and other service charges.
* The tour cost does not include POE charges and passport charges.
* Porterage Facility

Hotel List:
To view the list and detailed information about the hotels used in the tour

Please click here: View Hotel List

Itinerary

Morning: Our car will pick you up from Noi Bai Airport in Hanoi and transport you to the heart of the city, a journey that takes approximately 40 minutes. You will have the freedom to explore many ancient and beautiful places, including the Old Quarter, Hoan Kiem Lake, and Dong Xuan Market.

Evening: You will also have the opportunity to experience a water puppet show and take a leisurely stroll to appreciate the city's landscapes. Consider trying a Cyclo ride, a traditional mode of transportation in Vietnam. Overnight stay in Hanoi.

8:00 am: Following your breakfast, our team will pick you up from your hotel for the journey to Hoa Lu - Tam Coc, allowing you to relish the scenic views of rural areas along the way.

10:30 am: Upon arrival in Ninh Binh province, your guide will lead you to explore Hoa Lu, the ancient royal capital of Vietnam. During this visit, you'll have the opportunity to tour the Dinh King Temple and Le King Temple, both dating back to the 10th century. Gain insights into the heroic histories of these two kings during the Chinese Wars. Subsequently, we proceed to Tam Coc, located 10 km away from Hoa Lu, where lunch will be served at a local restaurant.

Post-lunch, embark on a bamboo boat, skillfully rowed by local individuals along the Hoang Long River, to explore Tam Coc, renowned for its three caves. This leisurely boat ride provides a brief respite from the summer sun as you navigate through the captivating scenery. The journey takes approximately two hours, offering glimpses of local fisherfolk, riverside village life, and the unique limestone karst formations that contribute to Tam Coc's fame. For those interested, biking is an option. Additionally, you'll have the chance to explore authentic villages and picturesque landscapes by bicycle for approximately one hour (starting from the restaurant).

5:00 pm: Return to Hanoi by car and check-in at the hotel. Overnight stay in Hanoi.

(Your hotel – Tuan Chau Marina - Halong Bay - Lunch – Amazing Van Gia Floating Village – Sunset Party – Soi Sim Island – Dinner – Fishing)

7:45 - 8:00 AM: Our guide will meet you at your hotel. The shuttle bus or private car will pick you up.

Revel in the serene scenery as we journey through the countryside, farmlands, and the Red River delta.

Capture memorable photos during our travel. Enjoy a comfort break. The journey from Hanoi to Halong Bay takes approximately 3 ½ hours.

12 – 12:30 noon approx: Arrive at Tuan Chau Marina. Welcome aboard the cruise. Meet the captain, crew, and join us for a welcome cocktail as we share information about life onboard.

Check into your cabin. Take time to refresh and unwind.

Set sail as lunch is prepared by our chef.

Join us for a relaxing lunch in the restaurant or on the outdoor dining area. Delight in the stunning views of the Bay and its dramatic limestone islands as we sail through the calm waters.

Afternoon: While en route to the amazing Van Gia Fishing Village, relax on the sundeck and observe the world around you or take an afternoon nap in your cabin. In the middle of the afternoon, arrive at Van Gia Floating Fishing Village.

Drop anchor.

Our guide will provide information and interesting facts about this captivating village and its local community.

Disembark and choose between options to visit the village by kayak or local bamboo boat. The locals will be your guides through their fishing village, offering insight into life on the water. We take pride in our working partnership with and support of this community.

Our cruise will then take you to Soi Sim Natural Beach for swimming and snorkeling. Enjoy our engaging games such as football and basketball. While cruising, savor the sunset party with complimentary fruits and wine.

Return on board the cruise as we head towards the sleeping area.

Early evening: Take the opportunity to refresh and join friends for a pre-dinner drink in the bar.

Dinner is served in the restaurant or outdoor dining area if weather permits, offering a gastronomic delight. After dinner, unwind in the bar where a selection of books, magazines, and board games awaits, or watch a movie on our plasma TV. Join some of our team for nighttime cuttle fishing. Accommodation and overnight stay on the boat.

<span> Day 4</span> HA LONG - HA NOI - HO CHI MINH CITY

(Tai Chi - Breakfast – Surprising Cave – Cooking Demonstration – Lunch – Your hotel and Farewell)

06:30 AM - For early risers, join us for a Tai Chi session on the sun deck. Tai chi helps focus the mind and condition the body, and there is no better environment to practice this than among the limestone peaks and islands.

Enjoy breakfast with coffee and tea.
After breakfast, we sail through the waters, passing by a number of caves, and anchor at Surprising (Sung Sot) Cave.

Disembark and visit Surprise Cave located on Bo Hon Island. It is one of the widest grottoes in Ha Long Bay with thousands of stalactites and stalagmites.
09:30 AM: Board the cruise again. Take time to refresh and relax before checking out. Bags can be left in the luggage store. Join our short class of Cooking demonstration to learn how to make spring rolls before an early lunch is served.

12 noon: Return to the shore and disembark from the cruise as our crew says farewell. Transfer to a minibus or private vehicle and return to Hanoi. Arrival back at your hotel approximately 16:30/17:00. Free for dinner.

06:00 PM: Car transfer to the airport.

08:00 PM: Flight from Hanoi to Ho Chi Minh.

10:00 PM: Arrive in Ho Chi Minh, transfer by car to the center, check in at the hotel. Overnight in Ho Chi Minh.

8:30 AM: We embark from Ho Chi Minh City to Cu Chi Tunnels, situated 60 km away from Ho Chi Minh city. Cu Chi is now recognized as a heroic district for its pivotal role in the anti-American war in Vietnam. Renowned for its extensive tunnel system stretching over 220 km, it is a renowned destination for both Vietnamese and foreign visitors.

The tranquil rural landscape, adorned with rice paddies and the sight of ducks and water buffalos in the rivers, paints a peaceful picture. It is challenging to envision the destruction, damage, and defoliation that once marred this area due to bombings and mines when Cu Chi was designated as a "Free Target Zone." The remnants bear witness to the intense battles that transpired. Have you ever wondered what it's like to fire an AK-47? A visit to Cu Chi tunnels provides you with the opportunity to experience it firsthand!

02:30 PM: The tour concludes at our company. Overnight in Ho Chi Minh.

08:00 AM: Our journey begins as we depart from Ho Chi Minh City to My Tho City, a scenic bus ride lasting about one and a half hours.

As the bus glides through lush green rice fields, we reach the charming rural city of My Tho. The morning adventure continues aboard a motorized boat along the Tien River to the Qui (Tortoise Islet). Along the way, take in the sights of the fishing port, stilt houses, boat-building workshops, and other islets named Dragon, Phoenix, and Unicorn. The cruise guides you through Bao Dinh Canal, entering Ben Tre province, known as "the country of coconut." Explore a typical agricultural model known as "Garden - Pond – Cage" and indulge in the flavors of coconut candy from the local mill, complemented by a relaxing honey tea. Don't miss the incredible rowing boat trip along a small canal, shaded by water coconut trees and caressed by cool breezes. Lunch awaits in the heart of an orchard garden.

Afternoon: Following lunch, we venture into the village, visiting a fruit garden and savoring tropical fruits while being serenaded by the sounds of "Southern Vietnamese folk music" performed by the islanders. Immerse yourself in the daily activities of the local people, absorbing the tranquil atmosphere of this picturesque countryside.

The final boat trip brings us back to My Tho via the Tan Thach natural canal.

03:00 PM: Return to Ho Chi Minh City, with a stop at Vinh Trang Pagoda. The tour concludes at 05:00 PM.

<span> Day 7</span> HO CHI MINH DEPARTURE

Enjoy leisure time in Ho Chi Minh City until your departure. Our car will pick you up from the hotel and transfer you to the airport. Until we meet again!

Durations

5 - 8 days

Languages

English

Regional Tours

Vietnam

For more information or to book this tour, please click the request button below:

BOOKING REQUEST

PRIVATE CUSTOMISED TRIP

Tour's Location

Vietnam

The Legend of Hanoi’s West Lake - 🐉 The Legend of Hanoi’s West Lake – Between Myth, History, and Timeless Beauty📍 Location: Northwest Hanoi | Free Entry | Open 24/7 🌅 Introduction: Where Myth Meets Modern Hanoi Few places in Hanoi capture the city’s poetic soul quite like West Lake (Hồ Tây). The vast, shimmering expanse of water — stretching over 500 hectares — has been a silent witness to Hanoi’s long and layered history. It’s a place where ancient legends blend effortlessly with modern life, where monks, kings, and mythical creatures once roamed, and where today’s travelers can enjoy lakeside cafés, sunsets, and the calm rhythm of local life. But before the luxury hotels, the trendy restaurants, and the scenic cycling routes, there was a story — a legend that explains how this lake came to be. And it’s one of Vietnam’s most enchanting folktales: The Legend of the Golden Buffalo and the Birth of West Lake. 🛕 The Ancient Tale: How the Golden Buffalo Created West Lake Long ago, when the world was still wrapped in mist and myth, a virtuous monk journeyed to China to heal the emperor’s mysterious illness. Out of gratitude, the emperor rewarded him with a generous gift of bronze. The monk, humble and devoted, donated most of the bronze to the state upon returning to Vietnam. Yet with the small portion he kept, he crafted a magnificent bronze bell — a bell so pure and resonant that its sound rolled across mountains and rivers, echoing far beyond human lands. 🐮 Far away in the imperial treasury of China, there lived a golden buffalo calf. Hearing the divine sound of the bell, the calf mistook it for its mother’s call and began charging south toward the origin of the sound. It ran tirelessly across valleys and plains until it reached Hanoi. But when the bell stopped ringing, the confused calf spun in circles, digging deep into the earth in its frantic search. The ground caved in, forming a massive hollow — which soon filled with water and became West Lake (Hồ Tây). According to legend, the golden buffalo still lies deep beneath the lake’s waters. It’s said that only a man aided by his ten natural sons can one day retrieve it — a symbol of purity, family unity, and divine destiny. 🌊 Between Myth and Reality: The Geographical Story While the legend paints a magical picture, geologists and historians offer a more down-to-earth explanation. West Lake was likely formed thousands of years ago as a lagoon left behind by the shifting Red River (Sông Hồng). Over time, the river’s course changed, creating a narrow land strip between the lake and the river, reinforced later by human-made embankments. But even the scientific truth doesn’t erase the poetry of the place. The lake’s still waters continue to hold the whisper of myth — and perhaps, the quiet pulse of that golden buffalo deep beneath. 👑 A Royal Playground Through the Centuries In Vietnam’s feudal era, West Lake wasn’t just a natural wonder — it was a royal retreat. Monarchs from the Ly, Tran, and Le dynasties built summer palaces and spiritual sanctuaries along its banks, seeking tranquility and inspiration. One of the most notable constructions was Trấn Quốc Pagoda, originally founded in the 6th century and known as Vietnam’s oldest pagoda. Sitting gracefully on a small islet connected by a red bridge, it became a sacred center for meditation and royal ceremonies. Even today, monks in saffron robes can be seen tending to the pagoda’s gardens, and visitors come from around the world to light incense, admire the intricate statues, and enjoy panoramic views of the lake at sunset. 🌅 West Lake Today (2025): The Beating Heart of Modern Hanoi Fast-forward to 2025, and West Lake has transformed into Hanoi’s most desirable neighborhood — a mix of traditional charm and cosmopolitan sophistication. Expats, artists, and young professionals call this area home. You’ll find luxury hotels, rooftop bars, craft cafés, yoga studios, and peaceful walking paths circling the water. Despite the modern vibe, the air of legend still lingers — especially at dawn, when mist hangs low and the sound of temple bells drifts across the lake. ✨ What to Experience Around West Lake (2025): 🚴‍♀️ Cycle or walk the 17km perimeter for incredible sunrise and sunset views. 🛕 Visit Trấn Quốc Pagoda, the city’s oldest religious site. 🍵 Enjoy lakeside dining at chic spots like Maison de Tet Décor, El Gaucho Steakhouse, or The Sunset Bar at InterContinental Hanoi Westlake. 🚤 Take a paddle boat ride on the nearby Trúc Bạch Lake, especially at sunset. 📸 Capture iconic Hanoi views from Thanh Niên Street — the narrow causeway separating West Lake and Trúc Bạch Lake. 💬 The Legend Lives On: West Lake in Local Culture The legend of the golden buffalo isn’t just an old folktale — it continues to live in Hanoi’s identity. Local artists, poets, and musicians still reference the mythical creature as a symbol of power, endurance, and prosperity. During the Lunar New Year (Tết), families visit West Lake to release carp into the water — a symbolic act of letting go of misfortune and inviting blessings. Lovers stroll under the flame trees, while elders practice tai chi by the lakeshore, connecting spiritual calm with physical harmony. In every season, the lake changes character:🌸 Spring brings soft blossoms around the temples.☀️ Summer fills the air with lotus fragrance.🍂 Autumn paints the waters gold.❄️ Winter wraps the lake in silver mist. Each phase reflects the rhythm of Hanoi’s heart — gentle, reflective, and eternal. 🌿 Practical Tips for Visiting West Lake in 2025 ✅ Best Time to Visit: Early morning (5–7 am) for sunrise tranquility, or late afternoon (4–6 pm) for magical golden light.✅ Getting There: Only a 10-minute drive from Hanoi’s Old Quarter by motorbike or taxi.✅ Local Eats: Try Bánh tôm Hồ Tây (crispy shrimp pancakes) — a Hanoi specialty born right here by the lakeside.✅ Don’t Miss: Watching the sunset from The Summit Bar at Pan Pacific...Gunners’ Memorial Hanoi - 🇻🇳 Gunners’ Memorial Hanoi – A Silent Witness of Courage and History📍 Location: North of Quan Thanh Temple, along Thanh Nien Street, Hanoi🕒 Open 24/7 • Free Entry 💫 Introduction: Where History Meets the Lakeside Peace of Hanoi As you stroll along Thanh Nien Street, the tree-lined causeway separating West Lake (Ho Tay) and Truc Bach Lake, you’ll come across a modest yet profoundly symbolic monument — the Gunners’ Memorial. Though small in size, this landmark holds immense historical and emotional weight. It honors the Vietnamese anti-aircraft units who defended Hanoi during the American War (Vietnam War), and it marks the very site where U.S. Navy Lieutenant Commander John McCain’s plane was shot down in October 1967. Today, the Gunners’ Memorial is more than just a war relic — it’s a poignant reminder of resilience, reconciliation, and how far Vietnam has come since those turbulent years. In 2025, with Hanoi’s lakeside neighborhoods thriving with life and culture, this quiet memorial stands as a powerful symbol of peace and remembrance. ⚔️ A Glimpse Back in Time: The Story Behind the Memorial During the intense bombing campaigns of the late 1960s, anti-aircraft defense teams were stationed around Hanoi to protect key government buildings and cultural landmarks. The Gunners’ Memorial pays tribute to those brave soldiers who operated anti-aircraft cannons in the area — a crucial part of Hanoi’s defense network. On October 26, 1967, during an airstrike over Hanoi, Lieutenant Commander John McCain’s A-4 Skyhawk was struck by a missile launched from this very position. His plane crashed into Truc Bach Lake, just a few meters away from where the memorial now stands. Locals rushed to rescue McCain from the lake before he was taken prisoner — an event that would shape his life for years to come. McCain spent over five years as a prisoner of war in Hoa Lo Prison (nicknamed the “Hanoi Hilton”) before being released in 1973. 🕊️ From Conflict to Connection: The Story’s Human Side What makes this site truly remarkable is not just its wartime legacy, but the spirit of reconciliation it embodies today. When John McCain returned to Hanoi decades later as a U.S. Senator, he stood beside the very lake where he had fallen — not as an enemy, but as a guest and a symbol of friendship between two former foes. Vietnam and the United States have since developed strong diplomatic and economic ties, and sites like the Gunners’ Memorial remind visitors how history, though painful, can evolve into mutual respect and understanding. Standing at the memorial in 2025, you’ll see local couples taking photos, children riding bicycles, and vendors selling coconut ice cream by the lake — everyday life flowing peacefully where once war raged. 🏛️ What to See at the Gunners’ Memorial The memorial itself is small but evocative — a stone monument engraved in Vietnamese, surrounded by flowering shrubs and shaded by tamarind and flame trees. It’s easy to miss if you’re not looking for it, but the simplicity adds to its charm and solemnity. 🔹 Inscription: The plaque honors the anti-aircraft gunners who “bravely fought and shot down enemy planes over Truc Bach Lake.”🔹 Scenic Backdrop: The site offers a serene view of Truc Bach Lake, with reflections of surrounding trees and small cafés — perfect for quiet contemplation.🔹 Nearby Attractions: Within walking distance are Quan Thanh Temple, Tran Quoc Pagoda, and several lakeside coffee shops where you can sit and soak in Hanoi’s tranquil beauty. 📷 Travel Tips for 2025 Visitors ⏰ Best Time to Visit: Early morning or just before sunset, when the light over Truc Bach Lake is golden and soft — ideal for photography. 🚶 Getting There: It’s about a 10-minute taxi or motorbike ride from Hanoi Old Quarter. You can also walk along Thanh Nien Street if you’re exploring nearby West Lake. ☕ Where to Rest: After visiting, grab a seat at one of Truc Bach’s cozy lakeside cafés such as Maison de Tet Décor or The Coffee House. Both offer great views and relaxing vibes. 🎧 Combine It With: Visiting Quan Thanh Temple (Guardian of the North) and Tran Quoc Pagoda, the oldest Buddhist pagoda in Hanoi — both just a short stroll away. 🧭 Why You Should Visit For travelers interested in Vietnam’s layered history, the Gunners’ Memorial is a must-visit stop. It’s not a grand or heavily visited landmark, but its quiet dignity captures something deeply human — the endurance of memory, the cost of peace, and the beauty of moving forward. Here, history doesn’t shout; it whispers across the calm waters of Truc Bach Lake. You’ll feel the stillness, the reflection — both literal and emotional — that makes Hanoi so captivating. ❤️ Final Thoughts: A Small Monument with a Big Message In a city where ancient temples, colonial architecture, and modern cafés coexist harmoniously, the Gunners’ Memorial serves as a gentle yet powerful bridge between Hanoi’s past and present. It reminds visitors that while the city continues to grow and modernize — with electric scooters, tech startups, and vibrant nightlife — the soul of Hanoi remains grounded in remembrance, gratitude, and humanity. If you ever find yourself wandering between West Lake and Truc Bach Lake, pause here for a few quiet minutes. Listen to the breeze rustling through the trees, watch the ripples on the lake’s surface, and reflect on how far the world has come since 1967. ✨ Travel Tip Recap✅ Location: Thanh Nien Street, between West Lake & Truc Bach Lake✅ Entry: Free, open 24 hours✅ Nearby: Quan Thanh Temple, Tran Quoc Pagoda, Truc Bach cafés✅ Best time: Sunrise or sunset for the most peaceful atmosphere 🌿 Hanoi’s Gunners’ Memorial isn’t just about history — it’s about hope.A story of courage, survival, and the quiet strength that defines Vietnam’s capital.

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From: ₹492

4-star hotels

5 (120 Reviews)

Hanoi and HaLong cruise to Ho Chi Minh 7 days

About this tour

Included/Excluded

Itinerary

Day 1 HA NOI

Day 2 TAM COC - NINH BINH

Day 3 HA NOI - HA LONG

Day 4 HA LONG - HA NOI - HO CHI MINH CITY

Day 5 CU CHI TUNNEL

Day 6 MEKONG DELTA

Day 7 HO CHI MINH DEPARTURE

Durations

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