Vietnam Compact Tour 6 Days 5 Nights (From Ho Chi Minh City to Hanoi)

Tour Code: G9D3I7P7V5IA 

4.9 (123 Reviews)
Ho Chi Minh City, My Tho, Ben Tre, Hanoi, Halong Bay
From: $369 4-star hotels
4.9
(123 reviews)
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Duration

6 Days

Tour Type

Daily Tour

Group Size

Unlimited

Languages

English

About this tour

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

Commence your journey in Ho Chi Minh City and conclude in Hanoi! Embark on the Vietnam Compact Tour, a 6-day adventure that traverses Ho Chi Minh City, Vietnam, and four additional destinations within the country. This comprehensive package encompasses accommodations in hotels, the expertise of a knowledgeable guide, meals, and transportation.

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

Itinerary

<span> Day 1</span> Ho Chi Minh Arrival

Arrive in Saigon! Our team will greet you at the airport and facilitate your transfer to a hotel in Sai Gon. Upon completing the check-in process, the remainder of the day is yours to savor. Sai Gon, the country's largest city, an economic hub, and a cultural influencer, pulsates with vitality and industry. Yet, nestled within this bustling metropolis, you'll discover the enduring traditions and allure of an ancient culture.

Enjoy an overnight stay in Saigon.

<span> Day 2</span> Sai Gon - Mekong Delta Discovery

Pick-up time: Between 6:30 and 6:45

Return time: From 17:30 to 18:00

Our team will collect you from your hotel in Ho Chi Minh City. Journey towards Cai Be by car/van using the Trung Luong Express Highway. Upon arrival in Cai Be, embark on a motorboat adventure to explore the vibrant Cai Be floating market, witnessing the locals engaging in trade with various fruits and commodities on their vessels. Visit a small family-run business to observe the intricate processes of making coconut candy and crispy rice popcorn. Stroll through the quaint villages, explore the orchards, and indulge in the melodies of traditional southern Vietnamese folk music.

Continue cruising to immerse yourself in the enchanting allure of the Upper Mekong Delta, surrounded by the beauty of nature. Participate in a cooking experience, learning the secrets of crafting special Vietnamese dishes. Relish the fruits of your culinary efforts, complemented by fresh river delicacies, served amidst the lush garden. Unwind in the hammocks to replenish your energy.

Embark on a bicycle ride along village paths adorned with fruit orchards and bonsai gardens. Interact with local islanders to gain deeper insights into their daily lives in the Mekong Delta. Conclude the day with a boat ride back to Cai Be, where your bus awaits to transport you back to Ho Chi Minh City.

Enjoy an overnight stay in Saigon

<span> Day 3</span> Sai Gon - Cu Chi tunnel - Flight to Hanoi

Be ready for pick-up at your hotel as we embark on a journey to Cu Chi, a bus ride of approximately one and a half hours. Upon arrival, a brief introduction and an informative video will precede your exploration of the tunnels. Gain insights into the construction of the tunnels and the survival strategies employed during the harsh conditions of wartime. Delve into the remaining tunnel area, discovering specially constructed living quarters with kitchens and bedrooms. Witness other martial facilities such as storage areas, weapons factories, field hospitals, and command centers that catered to the basic needs of those living within the tunnels. Navigate the maze-like tunnels, uncovering hidden trap doors and dangerous traps designed for security during the war. Conclude the visit with a serving of special tea and cassava, the guerilla's food during the war.

Take a break for relaxation or indulge those with an interest in trying their hand at real shooting with a gun.

Return to Saigon at 12:30. Enjoy free time until my driver arrives to pick you up at your hotel for a transfer to Tan San Nhat Airport, where you'll catch a flight to Hanoi.

Welcome to Hanoi! Our team will be there to meet you at the airport and facilitate your transfer to a hotel in Hanoi. Renowned as the "Paris of the East," Hanoi stands out as one of Asia's most enchanting cities. Enriched with culture and history, this diverse city reflects influences from both French and Chinese cultures. The remainder of the day is yours to relish.

Overnight at a hotel in Hanoi.

<span> Day 4</span> Hanoi - Ha Long – Sung Sot cave- Titop island

8:00 – 8:30: Your hotel pick-up awaits, orchestrated by our knowledgeable tour guide.

11:30: Upon reaching the harbor, a tender will transport you to the cruise. Relish in the warm welcome with refreshing drinks, partake in the cruise briefing, absorb safety instructions, and proceed to check in to your designated cabin.

12:30: Indulge in a delectable lunch featuring Vietnamese cuisine, highlighting fresh seafood and an array of appetizing delights. Savor your meal as the cruise gracefully navigates through these captivating islands.

14:30: Embark on a visit to the Surprising Cave, a colossal and awe-inspiring cavern within the bay.

16:00: Continue your journey to Titop Island, offering opportunities for a refreshing swim on the sandy beach and an invigorating climb to the summit, providing a panoramic view of Ha Long Bay.

18:00: Return to the cruise for a sun-set party on the sundeck, basking in the enchanting hues of the evening.

19:00: Dinner unfolds in the restaurant, featuring delightful local cuisine meticulously prepared and served by our exceptional onboard catering staff.

20:00: Engage in a fishing excursion or showcase your vocal talents with karaoke. Alternatively, unwind with a drink or hit the dance floor at the bar.

Overnight stay on the cruise.

<span> Day 5</span> Ha Long Bay - Hanoi

6:00: Awaken to the serene beauty of a sunrise breaking through the clouds, casting its warm glow on the bay's islands. (Note: Winter time may not feature a sunrise.)

7:00: Delight in a quiet bay as your breakfast awaits.

8:00: Set sail towards the Pearl Farm, providing a glimpse into the cultivation of real pearls in Ha Long Bay.

8:30: Embark on a kayaking adventure, paddling at your own pace to explore the bay.

10:00: Complete the check-out process for your cabin, ensuring it is impeccably cleaned by our housekeeping team to welcome the incoming group.

10:30: Engage in a brief cooking class, mastering the art of crafting fresh Vietnamese spring rolls.

11:00: Lunch is served onboard, offering a delightful culinary experience.

12:00: Disembark at the harbor and board the bus for the return journey to Hanoi, bidding farewell to the enchanting Halong Bay.

17:00: Arrive in Hanoi, where our team will drop you off at your hotel for check-in.

Overnight stay in Hanoi.

<span> Day 6</span> Hanoi City tour Half Day - Departure

Between 07:40 and 08:30, your tour guide will be ready to welcome you.

For OPTION 1 (available on Tuesday, Thursday, Saturday, Sunday), and for Monday, Wednesday, and Friday, we have an alternative itinerary to accommodate your flight schedule.

Embark on the journey by first visiting Tran Quoc Pagoda, a Buddhist relic and national heritage situated on the shores of West Lake.

Explore Ho Chi Minh's complex, the revered final resting place of Vietnam's esteemed leader. Visit his house-on-stilts and the One Pillar Pagoda, an architectural marvel modeled after a lotus flower, symbolizing Hanoi.

Proceed to the Ethnology Museum to delve into the rich cultures of the 54 ethnic groups residing in Vietnam.

At 13:00, take a break and relish lunch at a local restaurant in Hanoi's Old Quarter.

Durations

5 - 8 days

Languages

English

Regional Tours

Vietnam

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



Tour's Location

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

Reviews

4.9/5
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(123 Reviews)
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123 reviews on this Tour - Showing 46 to 60
Halong Bay Vietnam
Precious
18/04/2025

Excellent!

My Myanmar tour with VTP Travel was an incredible journey. The hotels were comfortable, the food delightful, and the guides fluent in English and full of fascinating knowledge. The company’s professionalism and prompt communication ensured the trip went smoothly from start to finish, leaving me with unforgettable memories.
Halong Bay Vietnam
Carla
18/04/2025

Excellent!

Vietnam with VTP Travel was an incredible adventure. The hotels were comfortable and conveniently located near attractions. The food was authentic and delicious, and the English-speaking guides were friendly and insightful, making the entire trip culturally rich and enjoyable.
Halong Bay Vietnam
Carolyn
18/04/2025

Excellent!

VTP Travel made booking my Cambodia trip stress-free and simple. Their team was quick to respond and very accommodating. The hotels were clean and welcoming, and the English-speaking guides were experts, offering deep insights into Cambodia’s history and culture, making the experience immersive and educational.
Halong Bay Vietnam
Isla
17/04/2025

Excellent!

Vietnam tours by VTP Travel are second to none. The company carefully chooses excellent hotels and plans itineraries that showcase the country’s best highlights. The English-speaking guides were professional, knowledgeable, and friendly, providing engaging narratives that made the history and culture come alive. The delicious food added a wonderful culinary dimension to the trip.
Halong Bay Vietnam
Curtis
17/04/2025

Excellent!

VTP Travel arranged a wonderful Laos experience for me. The accommodations were comfortable and authentically decorated, adding to the cultural immersion. Our English-speaking guides were knowledgeable, enthusiastic, and very friendly, providing detailed explanations that deepened my appreciation for Laos’ history and customs.
Halong Bay Vietnam
Khloe
13/04/2025

Excellent!

Booking my Cambodia trip with VTP Travel was smooth and reassuring. Although I was initially nervous about online booking, their quick, clear communication put me at ease immediately. The accommodations were clean and charming, and the English-speaking guides provided in-depth historical and cultural knowledge, enriching every stop.
Halong Bay Vietnam
Amie
13/04/2025

Excellent!

My Myanmar tour organized by VTP Travel was outstanding. The hotels were cozy and culturally authentic, adding depth to the trip. The English-speaking guides were warm and professional, ensuring that every detail was handled well and that the cultural experiences were meaningful.
Halong Bay Vietnam
Anna
10/04/2025

Excellent!

Laos tour was one of the best. Hotels authentic and comfortable, guides friendly and knowledgeable, eager to share stories enriching my understanding of Laos’s culture and traditions.
Halong Bay Vietnam
Brynlee
10/04/2025

Excellent!

Vietnam tours by VTP Travel are truly excellent. The hotels were comfortable and well-located, making it easy to explore major attractions. The included meals were delicious and authentic, and the English-speaking guides were professional, friendly, and very informative, enhancing every part of the trip.
Halong Bay Vietnam
Cristina
09/04/2025

Excellent!

My Laos tour with VTP Travel was flawlessly executed. Every detail, from accommodations to daily activities, was perfectly planned. The English-speaking guides were knowledgeable and personable, helping me understand the local culture deeply. Their excellent communication and organization made this trip truly special and stress-free.
Halong Bay Vietnam
Vanessa
08/04/2025

Excellent!

The Cambodia tour was well organized, with punctual transport and knowledgeable guides. I highly recommend VTP Travel for anyone visiting Southeast Asia.
Halong Bay Vietnam
Bonita
06/04/2025

Excellent!

The Cambodia trip arranged by VTP Travel was well planned and stress-free. Their quick responses and flexibility to accommodate my preferences made the booking process easy. The guides spoke excellent English, were friendly, and provided great insights that enhanced my understanding of the rich culture and history of the places we visited.
Halong Bay Vietnam
Tanya
05/04/2025

Excellent!

Traveling Vietnam with VTP Travel was a fantastic experience. The hotels were carefully selected for comfort and convenience, and the food was delicious and authentically Vietnamese. The English-speaking guides were friendly and insightful, providing rich cultural and historical information throughout the trip.
Halong Bay Vietnam
David
05/04/2025

Excellent!

VTP Travel’s Vietnam tour was perfectly organized, making every day seamless and enjoyable. The hotels were clean, comfortable, and well-located near cultural landmarks. Our English-speaking guides were knowledgeable, friendly, and eager to share local history and traditions, enriching every stop on the journey.
Halong Bay Vietnam
Ida
04/04/2025

Excellent!

My Myanmar adventure with VTP Travel was exceptional. The itinerary was well balanced between cultural sites and scenic exploration. Hotels were comfortable and reflective of local culture. The English-speaking guides were experts in their field, warm, and enthusiastic, providing deep insights and making the experience unforgettable.

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