Vietnam Express Northbound 10 Days -

From: $600 4-star hotels

(110 reviews)

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Duration

10 Days

Tour Type

Daily Tour

Group Size

Unlimited

Languages

English

About this tour

Ho Chi Minh City, Hoi An, Hue, Hanoi, Halong Bay

Commence your journey in Ho Chi Minh City and conclude it in Hanoi! Embark on the dynamic Vietnam Express Northbound, a 10-day tour package that guides you through Ho Chi Minh City, Vietnam, and four other captivating destinations in the country. This experience encompasses accommodations in hotels, the expertise of a knowledgeable guide, meals, transportation, and more.

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

Hello! Welcome to Vietnam. Your journey commences with an introductory meeting at 6 pm. Since this itinerary doesn't allocate much time for exploring Ho Chi Minh City, consider arriving a day or two earlier to explore the attractions. We can gladly arrange additional accommodation for you (subject to availability). Ho Chi Minh City boasts a vibrant atmosphere with a touch of French influence. You might want to explore Pham Ngu Lao Street, visit Vinh Nghiem Pagoda, or opt for an Urban Adventure with a local expert guide. Following the meeting, why not bond with your fellow travelers and savor the diverse flavors of Vietnamese cuisine during an optional group dinner?

Accommodation: Hotel

<span> Day 2</span> Mekong Delta - Ho Chi Minh City

Today, you will head south using a private minibus (approximately 3 hours) to explore the Mekong Delta. Upon arrival, embark on a private boat and navigate the intricate waterways, immersing yourself in the serene surroundings of this fertile region often referred to as the 'rice bowl of Vietnam.' Disembark at Ben Tre, visit coconut gardens, and pause at a local home to taste tropical fruits and coconut jams before enjoying a paddling experience in sampans (small rowing boats). Explore the villages on a tuk-tuk tour, gaining insights into rural life and local livelihoods. Indulge in a delicious lunch at a delta-centric restaurant, savoring regional specialties like the renowned elephant ear fish. Conclude the day with a boat cruise along the major waterways of the delta to Ben Tre boat pier. After the cruise, return to Ho Chi Minh City by bus.

Accommodation: Hotel

This morning, bid farewell to Ho Chi Minh City and take a flight north to Danang (approximately 1 hour 30 minutes). Upon arrival, embark on a 45-minute bus journey to Hoi An, with the breathtaking peaks of the Marble Mountains providing a stunning backdrop. Once in Hoi An, your guide will lead you on a walking tour of this distinctive town, shaped by the cultural influences of Europe, China, and Vietnam over the years. A significant trading port since the 17th century, the town's architecture reflects diverse external influences, featuring pagodas and assembly halls scattered throughout. Despite its modest size, Hoi An exudes both vibrancy and tranquility. The tour will guide you through the streets undergoing restoration, offering a glimpse into the town's appearance over a century ago. As you traverse these historical streets with low-tiled buildings, you'll encounter a notable trader's former residence, the Japanese Covered Bridge, a Chinese assembly hall, and a museum.

Accommodation: Hotel

Indulge in a leisurely day in the UNESCO-listed Hoi An. Explore the Central Market and peruse the vibrant street stalls offering an array of artworks, woodcraft, ceramics, lanterns, and more. Hoi An is renowned for its skilled tailors, capable of crafting exquisite items tailored to your preferences within a short timeframe. For the more adventurous, consider renting a bicycle to explore the picturesque surrounding countryside – an excellent way to gain insights into rural Vietnam. Additional optional activities include a day excursion to My Son Cham, an intricately designed World Heritage-listed temple reflecting the cultural richness of the Cham civilization, a scenic cruise along the Thu Bon River, or a visit to the nearby Cua Dai Beach.

Accommodation: Hotel

Depart from Hoi An today and traverse the captivating Hai Van Pass, a route that, while occasionally rugged, offers breathtaking panoramas overlooking Lang Co Beach. Pause for a quick photo break along the way before continuing your journey to Hue, the former imperial capital of Vietnam (approximately 5 hours, including stops). Hue harbors the riches of Vietnam's royal history and boasts a compelling mix of lively streets and serene surroundings. Join your guide for an exploration of the Imperial Citadel, encompassing the Imperial City and the Forbidden Purple City within. This iconic site was heavily damaged during the Vietnam/American War, and the remnants and craters from bombs serve as poignant reminders of the devastation caused. During your free time, consider a visit to Dong Ba Market, where you can find locally crafted items, fresh produce, and enticing street delicacies.

Accommodation: Hotel

<span> Day 6</span> Hue - Overnight Train

Embark on today's journey with a unique motorbike adventure. You will be accompanied by your personal driver, who will guide you through a scenic drive around the Imperial Citadel and then to the Thien Mu Pagoda, an unofficial emblem of Hue with origins dating back to 1601. This active Buddhist monastery holds historical significance, as evidenced by the car left by a monk who self-immolated in protest against the mistreatment of Buddhists by the South Vietnamese regime. Following this, ride to a special lunch venue at a convent or Buddhist monastery, indulging in a delectable vegetarian feast. Continue your motorbike exploration to the royal tomb of Emperor Tu Duc, situated amidst a serene landscape of a lake, frangipani bushes, and pine trees. As the day concludes, board an overnight train to Hanoi (approximately 12 hours).

Accommodation: Overnight sleeper train

Upon early morning arrival in Hanoi, proceed to your hotel for check-in. Renowned for its picturesque lakes, tree-lined boulevards, public gardens, and the captivating Old Quarter, Vietnam's capital, Hanoi, offers a blend of modernity with its emerging cityscape, ancient Buddhist temples, and a maze of historic streets. Later in the day, embark on a guided walking tour that includes notable landmarks such as Ho Chi Minh's former stilt house and the Temple of Literature. During your leisure time, consider exploring the '36 Streets' in the historic Old Quarter, strolling around the serene Hoan Kiem Lake, or visiting the Fine Arts Museum—an institution dedicated to preserving and showcasing the cultural richness of Vietnam's diverse ethnic communities.

Accommodation: Hotel

Embark on a private minibus journey to the breathtaking Halong Bay, a UNESCO World Heritage site renowned for its pristine beauty (approximately 4 hours). The bay features emerald waters adorned with limestone islands and captivating caves. A cruise awaits to take you on an exploration of Surprise Cave and the mesmerizing rock formations. During the warmer months, you can engage in kayaking or take a refreshing swim near Ti Top Island. Access to Surprise Cave involves navigating staircases, and inside, the pathways may be a bit uneven and slippery. Onboard the ship, relish your meals in the dining room and bar, including delectable fresh seafood for both lunch and dinner. Spend the night beneath a starlit sky on the boat.

Accommodation: Overnight boat

Bid farewell to the enchanting landscapes of Halong Bay and journey back to Hanoi by bus (approximately 3.5 hours). Arriving in Hanoi later in the afternoon, you'll have some leisure time to explore the city's attractions or indulge in last-minute shopping. Alternatively, you can unwind at a café or savor a bia hoi (freshly brewed draught beer) at one of the quaint microbars in the Old Quarter. The evening culminates in a group farewell dinner at KOTO restaurant, an establishment dedicated to empowering underprivileged youth through hospitality industry careers.

Accommodation: Hotel

Conclude your Vietnamese journey today. While there are no scheduled activities on the last day, you may opt to extend your adventure with a short tour, such as the 'Hanoi Street Food by Night' or 'Village Discovery by Bike' offered by our partners, Urban Adventures (visit urbanadventures.com for more details). Alternatively, you might want to explore the Hoa Lo Prison, also known as the 'Hanoi Hilton,' historically used for prisoners of war during the Vietnam War. Another intriguing option is a visit to the Museum of Ethnology, showcasing captivating indoor and outdoor exhibits. If you wish to extend your stay, feel free to inquire about additional accommodation (subject to availability) at the time of booking.

Durations

9 - 12 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

Ho Chi Minh City, Hoi An, Hue, Hanoi, Halong Bay

Vietnam’s Revolutionary Spirit - Exploring Vietnam’s Revolutionary Spirit When you travel through Hanoi, you’ll notice that the city’s history isn’t just preserved in its temples and French villas — it also lives on in its museums. One of the most fascinating places to experience this is at 216 Tran Quang Khai Street, home to what was once the Museum of the Vietnamese Revolution. Today, it forms part of the National Museum of History, focusing on Vietnam’s revolutionary journey — from the earliest anti-colonial movements in the 19th century to the nation’s dramatic transformation after reunification in 1975. This museum is more than a collection of artifacts; it’s a powerful narrative of resilience, patriotism, and hope, told through rare documents, photographs, and stories of the people who shaped modern Vietnam. 🏛️ A Museum with Revolutionary Roots Originally established as the Museum of the Vietnamese Revolution, the site was dedicated to chronicling the struggles of the Vietnamese people against colonial powers and foreign domination. In recent years, the collection was integrated into the larger National Museum of History, giving visitors a complete picture of the nation’s past in one cohesive institution. Walking through its halls in 2025, you’ll find that the displays are thoughtfully curated to guide you through the country’s turning points — from underground resistance newspapers to iconic photographs of revolutionary leaders. 📜 The Story Told Through Documents and Words Unlike other museums that rely heavily on artifacts, this one leans on the power of documents and writing to bring history to life. Clandestine Newspapers 📰 – The earliest whispers of resistance often came through underground publications, secretly printed and distributed despite colonial surveillance. These fragile papers now rest in glass cases, a reminder of the courage it took to spread ideas of freedom. Revolutionary Tracts ✍️ – Many of these were penned by Ho Chi Minh, whose words inspired generations to resist oppression and fight for independence. His essays, pamphlets, and letters remain a central feature of the museum’s collection. Rare Photographs 📸 – The museum proudly displays portraits of Vietnam’s revolutionary heroes. Some of these images cannot be found elsewhere, making the exhibit especially valuable for history enthusiasts. ⚔️ War and Resistance: Key Exhibitions The museum also shines a spotlight on some of the defining battles and wars of Vietnam’s modern history. 🌄 Dien Bien Phu – The Decisive Victory No exhibit about Vietnam’s revolutionary struggle would be complete without a tribute to the Battle of Dien Bien Phu in 1954. This historic victory against French forces marked the end of colonial rule in Indochina and paved the way for the Geneva Accords. The museum presents documents, maps, and photographs that capture the determination of the Vietnamese fighters. 🇻🇳 The War of Independence The displays offer an in-depth look at Vietnam’s long fight for sovereignty, from grassroots resistance groups to organized national movements. Visitors can see how everyday people became part of a collective force determined to reclaim their homeland. 🪖 The American War (Vietnam War) Though the Military History Museum provides more extensive coverage of the Vietnam War, this site still offers a compelling collection. Visitors can explore carefully presented exhibits about the conflict, highlighting both the struggles and the resilience of the Vietnamese people. From propaganda posters to personal items of soldiers, these stories personalize a war that changed the world. 🌟 Why Visit 216 Tran Quang Khai in 2025? Authenticity: Many of the documents and photos are one-of-a-kind, offering perspectives not found in other museums. Emotional Impact: The focus on writings, faces, and personal stories creates a human connection with history. Contextual Learning: When combined with the main History Museum at Trang Tien and the Military History Museum, you gain a well-rounded understanding of Vietnam’s journey. 🕘 Visitor Information (Updated 2025) 📍 Address: 216 Tran Quang Khai Street, Hoan Kiem District, Hanoi🕗 Opening Hours: Daily 8:00 AM – 12:00 PM & 1:30 PM – 5:00 PM (Closed on the first Monday of each month)🎟️ Tickets: Entrance fee required; combined tickets with the National Museum of History are available for convenience.🌐 Official Website: baotanglichsu.vn🚶 Getting There: Just a short walk from the Opera House and Hoan Kiem Lake, making it easy to include in your Hanoi itinerary. 💡 Travel Tips for Visitors Pair Your Visit: Plan to see both 216 Tran Quang Khai and the main History Museum at 1 Trang Tien on the same day. Together, they tell the full story of Vietnam. Allow Enough Time: While smaller than the main site, the depth of the documents and exhibits deserves at least 1–2 hours. Photography: Limited photography may be allowed; check current rules upon entry. Guides & Audio Tours: Hiring a guide or using an audio tour app can provide richer insights, especially if you’re not familiar with Vietnam’s revolutionary figures. Respect the Space: For many locals, these exhibits are not just history but part of their family’s lived experiences. 🌏 Connecting Past and Present Visiting 216 Tran Quang Khai is not simply about studying old documents. It’s about standing in the presence of a nation’s collective memory — of battles fought, sacrifices made, and dreams of independence realized. For travelers in 2025, when Vietnam is thriving as one of Asia’s fastest-growing economies and cultural destinations, the museum is a poignant reminder of how far the country has come. From clandestine newspapers to post-war reconstruction, the exhibits encapsulate the resilience and determination that continue to define Vietnam today. ✨ Final Thoughts If you’re exploring Hanoi and want to go beyond the surface, make time for 216 Tran Quang Khai. It’s not as flashy as the Old Quarter or as glamorous as the Opera House, but it holds something deeper — the soul of Vietnam’s revolutionary journey. Walking through its halls, you’ll encounter not just names and dates but real voices from the past, still echoing with a call for freedom and unity. And that makes this museum one of Hanoi’s most powerful and unforgettable cultural experiences.Hanoi’s National Museum of History - 🏛️ Hanoi’s National Museum of History: A Journey Through Vietnam’s Past If you want to truly understand Vietnam — its struggles, triumphs, and cultural depth — there’s no better place to start than the National Museum of History in Hanoi. Nestled just one block east of the Hanoi Opera House, this museum is not only a treasure trove of artifacts but also a masterpiece of architecture, blending French colonial charm with traditional Vietnamese motifs. In 2025, the museum continues to be one of Hanoi’s must-visit cultural landmarks, offering travelers a chance to step back thousands of years into Vietnam’s past. From prehistoric tools to imperial treasures and wartime relics, every corner tells a story of resilience and creativity. 🏯 Architecture: A Blend of French Elegance and Vietnamese Tradition Before even stepping inside, the building itself demands admiration. Designed in the 1930s by the École Française d’Extrême-Orient, the structure combines the grandeur of a French villa with the curves and rooflines of Vietnamese palatial design — a style often referred to as Neo-Vietnamese architecture. With its ochre-yellow walls, graceful balconies, and tiled roofs, the museum feels like a harmonious fusion of East and West. Even today, photographers and architecture enthusiasts are drawn here, not just for the exhibits but also for the artistry of the building itself. ⏳ A Walk Through Time: The Museum’s Layout The National Museum of History is divided into two main sections: The main building at 1 Trang Tien Street — covering Vietnam’s history up to 1945. The annex across the street at 216 Tran Quang Khai Street — focusing on the post-1945 era, including Vietnam’s struggle for independence and reunification. This division allows visitors to follow Vietnam’s journey step by step, from prehistoric times to the modern nation it has become. 🥁 Ground Floor Highlights: The Bronze Age and Beyond Stepping into the ground floor is like traveling back over 2,000 years to the era of the Dong Son culture (1200–200 BC). This sophisticated Bronze Age civilization thrived in the Red River Delta and left behind remarkable artifacts that continue to astonish historians. 🌟 Must-See Exhibits on the Ground Floor The Ngoc Lu Drum 🥁 – Considered the crown jewel of the collection, this ceremonial bronze drum is adorned with delicate carvings of deer, birds, and musicians. Its craftsmanship demonstrates advanced casting techniques far ahead of its time. Bronze Tools and Utensils ⚒️ – From arrowheads to cooking implements, these everyday objects reveal the ingenuity of early Vietnamese societies. Artifacts from Hanoi’s Imperial Citadel 🏯 – Excavations in recent decades have uncovered treasures from Hanoi’s historic citadel, shedding light on its role as a political and cultural center. 11th-Century Amitabha Buddha 🧘 – A graceful wooden statue reflecting the influence of Buddhism in Vietnam’s medieval era. Celadon Ceramics 🍵 – Exquisite pale-green pottery from the Ly dynasty, admired for its elegance and durability. Bach Dang River Stakes ⚓ – Wooden stakes used in the legendary 13th-century battle, when Vietnamese forces under General Tran Hung Dao defeated Mongol invaders by luring their fleet into a deadly trap. Standing before these relics, you don’t just see artifacts — you feel the spirit of Vietnam’s ancestors who shaped the nation’s identity. 📜 Second Floor Treasures: Dynasties, Art, and Colonial Influences Moving upstairs, the second floor offers a vivid journey through Vietnam’s dynastic golden ages and its encounters with foreign powers. 🌟 Highlights of the Second Floor Le Loi Stele (3 meters tall) 🗿 – This monumental stone slab recounts the life of Le Loi, the national hero who led the resistance against Ming Chinese rule and established the Later Le dynasty (1428–1788). Ceramics Collection 🍶 – An extensive display of intricately painted ceramics, showcasing how Vietnamese artisans perfected techniques over centuries. Nguyen Dynasty Exhibits 👑 – Furniture inlaid with ivory, embroidered silk garments, and ceremonial items once used by emperors inside Hue’s Imperial Citadel. 19th-Century Ink Wash Paintings 🎨 – Evocative depictions of Hue’s imperial court life in the 1890s, capturing the elegance and rituals of Vietnam’s last dynasty. French Colonial Era Relics 🏛️ – Artifacts reflecting Vietnam’s transition during the late 19th and early 20th centuries under French rule, offering insight into cultural exchanges and struggles for identity. This section bridges the past with the dawn of modern Vietnam, revealing how the country endured centuries of outside influence while preserving its cultural soul. 📍 The Annex: Vietnam After 1945 Across the street, the second museum building covers the modern chapter of Vietnam’s history. Here, visitors encounter exhibits from the August Revolution, the First Indochina War, and the Vietnam War (known in Vietnam as the American War). You’ll see military uniforms, personal belongings of revolutionary leaders, propaganda posters, and photographs documenting the nation’s struggle for independence and reunification. It’s a powerful and emotional experience, particularly for visitors seeking to understand Vietnam’s resilience in the 20th century. 🕘 Visitor Information (Updated 2025) 📍 Address: 1 Trang Tien Street, Hoan Kiem District, Hanoi🕗 Opening Hours: Daily 8:00 AM – 12:00 PM & 1:30 PM – 5:00 PM (Closed the first Monday of each month)🎟️ Tickets: Entry fee applies (with additional small fee if bringing a camera). Tickets can now be purchased online via the museum’s official website to skip queues.🌐 Official Website: baotanglichsu.vn 💡 Travel Tips for Visiting in 2025 Best Time to Visit: Mornings are quieter, especially on weekdays. Arrive early to avoid tour groups. Combine With Nearby Attractions: The Opera House, Trang Tien Plaza, and Hoan Kiem Lake are all within walking distance. Bring a Guidebook or Audio Guide: While many exhibits now have English and French explanations, a guidebook or hired guide adds context to the vast collection. Photography: A small fee is required for cameras, but the photos are worth it, especially for the architectural details. Wear Comfortable Shoes: You’ll be on your feet for at least 2–3 hours exploring the two buildings. 📸 Why the Museum is a Must-See in Hanoi Unlike many museums that feel static, the National Museum of History in Hanoi is alive...

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(110 Reviews)

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110 reviews on this Tour - Showing 106 to 110

Maggie

21/02/2025

Excellent!

VTP Travel made my Vietnam holiday unforgettable. Their careful hotel selection, delicious local food options, and expert English-speaking guides all contributed to a rich and comfortable travel experience. Their professionalism and willingness to accommodate special requests stood out, making the journey seamless and enjoyable.

Minnie

18/02/2025

Excellent!

Traveling Vietnam with VTP Travel was fantastic. The hotels were comfortable and located near key attractions. Meals served were delicious and authentic, and the English-speaking guides provided valuable insights, making every cultural stop informative and enjoyable.

Jean

18/02/2025

Excellent!

Booking my Cambodia tour through VTP Travel was easy and convenient. Their team was prompt and attentive, customizing the itinerary to my preferences. The hotels were spotless and charming, and the English-speaking guides provided detailed cultural and historical knowledge that enhanced the experience.

Arielle

18/02/2025

Excellent!

Booking my Cambodia tour through VTP Travel was easy and convenient. Their team was quick to respond and attentive to my needs. The hotels were clean and welcoming, and the English-speaking guides offered detailed historical and cultural information that made the trip both educational and enjoyable.

Damon

18/02/2025

Excellent!

We had an unforgettable time in Cambodia thanks to VTP Travel’s outstanding service. The tour was well-paced and filled with local experiences. Our guide was engaging and very fluent in English, which helped us understand everything from temple symbolism to market customs. The entire experience was smooth and highly enjoyable.