Ultimate North and Central Vietnam 8 days

From: $497 4-star hotels

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Duration

8 Days

Tour Type

Daily Tour

Group Size

Unlimited

Languages

English

About this tour

Hanoi – Halong Bay – Hoi An – Hue

Should you seek a shift in scenery away from the hustle and bustle of urban life, consider indulging in our carefully crafted 8-day Tour of Ultimate North and Central Vietnam. This immersive experience offers glimpses of breathtaking landscapes, showcasing several UNESCO heritage sites, while providing insights into the diverse local cultures spanning from the northern regions to the heart of Vietnam’s central territories.

For solo travelers or young adults yearning to explore Vietnam, entrust the navigation to our seasoned guide and relish an unforgettable journey!

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

In the morning, our tour guide will be at your service to greet you upon arrival at Noi Bai airport, ensuring a smooth transfer to the city center for your check-in.

By 14:00, your hotel room will be prepared for occupancy (do reach out to the travel consultant if an early check-in is desired). The remainder of the day in Hanoi is yours to explore and enjoy.

During this free period, you have the option to participate in various tours such as the Hanoi Street Food Tour, a Half-Day Hanoi Cooking Class, or cultural performances like the Water Puppet Show or My Village Show.

Meals are not included, and your accommodation will be provided at a hotel in Hanoi.

<span> Day 2</span> Hanoi Half-day City tour

During either the morning or afternoon, depending on availability, guests can partake in a half-day city tour.

This excursion commences with a visit to the Temple of Literature, renowned as Vietnam's inaugural university. The itinerary then proceeds to the One Pillar Pagoda and the esteemed Mausoleum of President Ho Chi Minh.

Following these insightful tours, participants will have the opportunity to marvel at the stunning West Lake, adorned by the Tran Quoc Buddhist Pagoda, a venerable construction dating back to the 6th century during the Ly Dynasty.

The tour culminates with a delectable Vietnamese meal served at an authentic restaurant, allowing guests leisure time for the remainder of the day.

<span> Day 3</span> Halong Bay - Overnight Cruise

In the morning following breakfast, guests will be chauffeured via shuttle bus to Halong Bay, recognized as one of the world's seven natural wonders.

Upon arrival, guests will check in to board the cruise vessel and relish a delectable seafood lunch.

The afternoon and evening present an array of engaging activities, including cave explorations, kayaking, and more. After these adventures, return to the cruise to unwind, savor dinner, and spend the night on board.

Meals provided encompass breakfast, lunch, and dinner, with accommodation arranged on an overnight cruise in Halong Bay. Please note, our tour guide will not accompany guests during the cruise. Instead, fluent English-speaking crew members will be available to assist and guide throughout the journey.

<span> Day 4</span> Halong Bay - Hanoi - Hue

In the morning, guests can opt for Tai Chi sessions or simply unwind on the cruise, soaking in the splendid sunrise amidst the limestone karsts. Following this, lunch will be served as the cruise voyages back to the mainland. Subsequently, guests will head to the airport to catch a flight bound for Hue.

Upon arrival at Phu Bai airport, designated drivers will transport guests to their hotel for check-in.

The afternoon and evening afford guests leisure time until nightfall to explore or relax as they please.

<span> Day 5</span> Hue City Tour - Hoi An

In the morning, embark on a Hue city tour, relishing the picturesque vistas of mountains and verdant hills along the route. A boat excursion awaits to Thien Mu Pagoda, an illustrious and enduring architectural marvel of worship within Vietnam.

Explore Dong Ba Market, the largest market in Hue, teeming with an array of local traditional delicacies. Journey through the remnants of Hue Palace, including the Imperial Citadel, enclosed within the city's citadel walls.

As the afternoon sets in, drivers will escort you to your hotel in Hoi An.

Upon arrival, complete your check-in procedures at the hotel and enjoy the remainder of the day at your leisure.

<span> Day 6</span> Hoi An - My Son Holly Land

In the morning, your tour guide will collect you from your hotel for a transfer to the My Son Sanctuary, a UNESCO-recognized World Cultural Heritage site. This Hindu temple, abandoned and partly in ruins, holds captivating historical significance from the Champa Kingdom. Following this exploration, proceed to the Sa Huynh Champa Culture Museum in Tra Kieu to delve deeper into the history.

Return to your hotel for a lunch break.

As the afternoon transitions to evening, your driver will accompany you to Da Nang city for check-in.

Indulge in a delightful dinner featuring traditional local cuisine.

Overnight accommodation is arranged at a hotel in Da Nang.

<span> Day 7</span> Ba Na Hills Day Trip

In the morning, following breakfast, transportation will be arranged for your journey to Ba Na Hills. Upon arrival, proceed to check in at the Suoi Mo Cable Car Station, subsequently traversing to the Marseille Station.

Embark on an exploration of the famed Golden Hand Bridge, a highlight of Ba Na Hills, recognized for its resemblance to scenes from "Game of Thrones" and "The Lords of the Rings". Continue your visit with a stroll through Le Jardin D’Amour (the Flower Garden of Love), a serene locale, followed by a stop at the Linh Ung Pagoda and the intriguing Debay Wine Cellar.

Savor a Vietnamese buffet lunch offering more than 70 traditional cuisines.

As the afternoon unfolds, return via the Cable Car Station to the Gateway, preparing for the journey back to your respective hotels.

In the evening, immerse yourself in the vibrant nightlife of Da Nang City.

Check out from your hotel and proceed to Da Nang airport to catch your flight to the next destination.

Accommodation: Not applicable

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

Hanoi - Halong Bay - Hoi An - Hue

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.