Vietnam Express Northbound

Trip Code

VEN

Departure Date

Daily

Duration

10 days

Views

510

Maximum Seats

8

What's Included?

Accommodation
All Transport
All Meals
All Entrance fees
Tour guide
Airline tickets on tour

Summary

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

Start in Ho Chi Minh City and end in Hanoi! With the Active tour Vietnam Express Northbound, you have a 10 days tour package taking you through Ho Chi Minh City, Vietnam and 4 other destinations in Vietnam. Vietnam Express Northbound includes accommodation in a hotel as well as an expert guide, meals, transport and more.

Tour Overview

Day 1

Day 1: Ho Chi Minh City

Xin chao! Welcome to Vietnam. Your adventure begins with a welcome meeting at 6 pm. As this trip doesn’t spend much time in Ho Chi Minh City, why not arrive a day or two early to see the sights? We’ll be happy to book some additional accommodation for you (subject to availability). Ho Chi Minh City has a dynamic atmosphere and a French influence. Perhaps head to Pham Ngu Lao Street to see the local open-aired market, visit Vinh Nghiem Pagoda or take an Urban Adventure with an expert local guide. After the meeting, why not get to know your fellow travellers and the flavours of Vietnamese cuisine over an optional group dinner. Accommodation: Hotel
Day 2

Day 2: Mekong Delta - Ho Chi Minh City

Today you'll travel south by private minibus (approximately 3 hours) and spend the day exploring the Mekong Delta. On arrival, board a private boat and traverse the intricate waterways – soak up the tranquil surrounds and admire the breathtaking views as you float through this fertile landscape, often referred to as ‘the rice bowl of Vietnam’. Disembark at Ben Tre and visit the coconut gardens, stopping at a local home to sample tropical fruits and coconut jams before paddling in sampans (small rowing boats). Take a tuk-tuk tour around the villages, learning about rural life and how the locals make their living. Enjoy lunch at a restaurant in the heart of the delta, sampling regional specialties such as the famous elephant ear fish. Then it’s back to the boat to cruise the delta’s major waterways to Ben Tre boat pier. After the cruise, return via bus to Ho Chi Minh City. Accommodation: Hotel
Day 3

Day 3: Hoi An

This morning, say goodbye to Ho Chi Minh City and fly north to Danang (approximately 1 hour 30 minutes). From here you’ll take a 45-minute bus ride to Hoi An, with the five spectacular peaks of the Marble Mountains as a backdrop. Once in Hoi An, your leader will take you on a walking tour of this unique town, influenced over the years by Europe, China and Vietnam. The town was a major trading port from the 17th century onwards, and the outside influences can be seen all over its architecture, with pagodas and assembly halls found across the town. For a small place it has a liveliness alongside its charm and serenity. The tour will take you down the streets that are being restored and look much like they did over a century ago. Past low tiled buildings, you'll take in a historic house (formerly home to a prominent trader), the Japanese Covered Bridge, a Chinese assembly hall and a museum. Accommodation: Hotel
Day 4

Day 4: Hoi An

Enjoy a free day in the World Heritage-listed Hoi An. You may like to wander the Central Market and the street stalls selling paintings, woodwork, ceramics, lanterns and much more. Hoi An is also famous for its talented tailors who can make beautiful items to order within a few hours. For those still feeling adventurous, why not hire a bicycle and tour the surrounding countryside? This is one of the best ways to get an insight into rural Vietnam. Other optional activities include a day trip to My Son Cham, an elaborate World Heritage-listed temple that reflects the rich cultural traditions of the Cham civilisation, a cruise along the Thu Bon River and a trip to the nearby Cua Dai Beach. Accommodation: Hotel
Day 5

Day 5: Hue

Leave Hoi An today and journey across the dramatic Hai Van Pass, a sometimes bumpy but incredibly scenic stretch of highway with views of Lang Co Beach. Make a quick photo stop enroute then continue to your destination of Hue, the former imperial capital of Vietnam (approximately 5 hours including stops). Hue contains the treasures of Vietnam’s royal history and has an interesting blend of bustling streets and tranquil settings. Join your leader for a tour of the Imperial Citadel – this fortress houses the Imperial City and the citadel-within-a-citadel, the Forbidden Purple City. This icon was almost completely destroyed during the Vietnam/American War, and the ruins and holes left by bombs are a reminder of the destruction that was caused. In your free time you might like to visit Dong Ba Market, which offers locally made goods, fresh produce and tantalising street food. Accommodation: Hotel
Day 6

Day 6: Hue - Overnight Train

Today’s adventure will be on the back of a motorbike. You’ll have your own driver who will take you first on a drive around the Imperial Citadel, then to the Thien Mu Pagoda, the unofficial symbol of Hue. This site dates back to 1601 and is still an active Buddhist monastery. Here you’ll also see the car left by a monk who set himself alight to protest the treatment of Buddhists by the South Vietnamese regime. Ride to a special lunch spot at a convent or Buddhist monastery for a delicious vegetarian feast, then drive to the royal tomb of Emperor Tu Duc, set amid a lake, frangipani bushes and pine trees. In the evening, board an overnight train to Hanoi (approximately 12 hours). Accommodation: Overnight sleeper train
Day 7

Day 7: Hanoi

Arrive in Hanoi early in the morning and transfer to your hotel. Vietnam’s capital is famous for its beautiful lakes, shaded boulevards, public parks and beautiful Old Quarter. As an emerging city in South East Asia, Hanoi has an attractive contrast of modern office buildings, old Buddhist temples and a labyrinth of ancient streets. Later in the day, take a walking tour through the city where you’ll see Ho Chi Minh’s former stilt house and other icons such as the Temple of Literature. In your free time, perhaps stop by the ’36 Streets’ of the historic Old Quarter, head to the beautiful Hoan Kiem Lake, or visit the Fine Arts Museum. This museum plays a crucial role in maintaining and promoting the cultural heritage of Vietnam’s ethnic communities. Accommodation: Hotel
Day 8

Day 8: Halong Bay

Travel by private minibus to the spectacular World Heritage site of Halong Bay (approximately 4 hours). This is one of Vietnam’s most beautiful places, a secluded bay of emerald waters flecked with limestone islands and caves. Here you’ll go on a cruise to explore Surprise Cave and surrounding rock formations, and in the warmer months perhaps go kayaking or opt for a swim from Ti Top Island. Access to Surprise Cave is via staircases. Once inside the cave the pathways are a little uneven and slippery. On board your ship, there’ll be a dining room and bar on board where you’ll enjoy your meals, including fresh seafood for lunch and dinner. Spend the night on board the boat beneath a sky alive with starlight. Accommodation: Overnight boat
Day 9

Day 9: Hanoi

Leaving the memorable scenery of Halong Bay behind, return by bus to Hanoi (approximately 3.5 hours). Arrive in Hanoi late this afternoon and enjoy some free time to explore Hanoi's sights or do some last-minute shopping. Otherwise, why not relax at a cafe or stop for a bia hoi (freshly brewed draught beer) at one of the microbars in the Old Quarter? Tonight there will be a farewell dinner to enjoy with the group at KOTO restaurant, an organisation that supports disadvantaged youth with careers in the hospitality industry. Accommodation: Hotel
Day 10

Day 10: Hanoi

Today your exploration of Vietnam comes to an end. There are no activities planned for the final day however you may consider continuing your adventure with a short tour such as ‘Hanoi Street Food by Night’ or ‘Village Discovery by Bike’ with our partners Urban Adventures (see urbanadventures.com for more information). Alternatively, perhaps visit the Hoa Lo Prison aka the ‘Hanoi Hilton’ which was used for prisoners of war during the Vietnam War. There’s also the Museum of Ethnology with its fascinating indoor and outdoor exhibits. We’ll be happy to book some additional accommodation for you (subject to availability), just ask at the time of booking.

Tour Overview

Day 1: Ho Chi Minh City - Arrival (-/-/-)

Day 1: Vietnam Intro Begins!

Pick-up at Tan Son Nhat International airport. Transfer to your hotel. Overnight in Ho Chi Minh City
Day 2

Day 2: Mekong Delta - Cai Be floating market (B/L/-)

The day will begin with a two-hour ride from Ho Chi Minh City to Mekong Delta. Upon arrival, we will take a boat cruise to visit Cai Be Floating Market. This market is a place where everybody gathers to buy and sell agricultural products. The market operates all day but it is only busy in the early morning. This market is different from the traditional ones because people buy and sell products on boats. Discovering this market, you can see business activities on rivers; understand the life of people in the South West region. Floating on the water, visitors can enjoy the relaxing moments. At the floating market, you can watch locals aboard their small boats trading fresh goods and local commodities. We will stop over at a local house where we can see how they make coconut candy, rice-paper, rice-pop corn and rice wine. Leave Cai Be for Tan Phong Islet where the maze of shady creeks will surely fascinate you, take a rowing-boat in a small channel. You will have a chance to spend time, enjoying traditional music and tropical fruits. Have a traditional lunch at a local house, including the popular dish of ‘Elephant-Ear Fish’. Overnight in Ho Chi Minh City.
Day 3

Day 3: Free time in the morning - Cu Chi Tunnels - Da Nang - Hoi An (B/-/-) - by flight - 1 hour

Free time at your leisure in the morning. In the afternoon, check out for a half-day tour to Cu Chi Tunnels before flying to Da Nang. Cu Chi Tunnels, a network of tunnels stretching over 250 kilometers, have proven to be one of the most famous and historical aspects of the Vietnam War. The tunnel system was created in 1948 to assist the Viet Minh as they fought the French for independence. Digging and building of tunnels continued over the next 25 years until it was an underground city with living areas, kitchens, storages, weapons factories, field hospitals and command centers. The tunnels could house thousands of people who lived almost entirely underground for years. There, people led relatively normal lives, which included getting married and raising children. During the American War, the entire area of Cu Chi was designated as a free fire zone; and was therefore, heavily attacked and bombed. In 1988, two sections of tunnels were opened up for visitors. Now you have the chance to enjoy this wonderful and informative experience. Created with “moving parts” these structures were designed to be livable for long periods of time. And for those who are interested, there is an opportunity for you to fire off rounds from a war era M16 or AK47 at the nearby firing range. (This activity is optional; fees for firing range are not included). After the trip, transfer to Tan Son Nhat International airport to go to Hoi An. Upon arrival at Da Nang airport, pick up and transfer to the hotel. Check in and relax. Overnight in Hoi An.
Day 4

Day 4: Hoi An City Tour in the morning (B/-/-)

Exploring Hoi An Ancient Town on foot is one of the best ways to take in the city’s charm. While exploring this small yet beautiful town, tourists and frequent visitors find that it is a place of tranquility and peace. The unique atmosphere here combines elements of Vietnamese, Chinese and Japanese culture. Some of the most remarkable views of the town are from the Ancient Houses. From here, visitors can catch a glimpse of a long-gone past and more subdued and simple time. The tour includes visits to Hoi An Market, Hoi An Museum, many of the town’s renowned Ancient Houses which boast a remarkable architectural style, Assembly Halls of Chinese influence, Art Craft Manufacturing and of course the must-see Japanese Covered Bridge. These spots are considered as typical architecture styles in Hoi An and reflect clearly the cross culture among France, Japan, China and Vietnam. Passing over hundreds of years and withstanding the severity of the weather, Hoi An still exists and keeps the ancient and quiet beauty. Once strolling around the ancient city, you will contemplate the simple and rustic life activities, the trellises of windflowers covering around the houses. It is certain that this tour will bring great moments for you. Have free time in the afternoon. Overnight in Hoi An.
Day 5

Day 5: Hoi An Foodie tour - My Son Sanctuary (B/L/-)

Discover Hoi An’s countryside and its local foods by bicycle. Local foods in Hoi An are known and enjoyed by the tourists once setting foot here. In Hoi An, these cuisines are very popular and sold everywhere in all streets. Moreover, these cuisines are considered as unique symbols for the culture and introduced to every tourist. We will ride to a local restaurant for Hoi An specialty - Cao Lau. We then bike through the countryside to a Tra Que Village. You will also learn how to make special “white rose” dumpling cakes with a local family and taste your products. Continue riding to Cam Nam to enjoy the Yin and Yang food such as: Banh Dap (“cracked or smashed rice pancake”), Che Bap (“corn and coconut sweet soup”). In the afternoon, visit My Son Sanctuary - an experience that should not be missed. Located in the heart of a beautiful valley and surrounded by high mountains ranges My Son was named a Cultural Heritage site by UNESCO in 1999. Wander around the lost Champa Kingdom that dated back to the 3rd century, explore the temples and learn about the fascinating history behind this sanctuary of Hinduism. Overnight in Hoi An.
Day 6

Day 6: Hoi An - Free day (B/-/-)

Free time all day to explore Hoi An on your own or take optional tour with Hoi An Express. Overnight in Hoi An.
Day 7

Day 7: Hoi An - Da Nang - Ha Noi City Tour (B/L/-) - by flight - 1 hour

After breakfast at the hotel, transfer to Da Nang International airport to go to Ha Noi. Upon arrival at Noi Bai airport, pick up and transfer to the hotel. Check in and god for lunch before a City tour. With ochre-colored colonial buildings, tree-lined boulevards and scenic lakes, Ha Noi is full of charms. Visit some of Ha Noi’s heritage sites such as Van Mieu - Quoc Tu Giam (Temple of Literature), the first Imperial school in Vietnam, built in 1070 during the dynasty of King Ly. We will also visit Hoan Kiem Lake, Ngoc Son Temple (Jade Mountain Temple), But Tower (Pen Shaped Tower), Dai Nghien (Inkstone Stand) and The Huc Bridge (Wooden Bridge painted in red). Then, we will take a cyclo (pedicab) ride around “the 36 meandering streets” of Ha Noi’s historic Old Quarter to enjoy the bustling local life. The history of Ha Noi dated back for over one thousand years, and Ha Noi has different cultural characteristics compared to other areas in Vietnam. The lifestyle, cuisine, fashion… of Ha Noi folks bear special features and through this journey, we can perceive these. It is very interesting to discover Ha Noi in the morning, when the life has just started and we can enjoy the busy atmosphere. Hanoians are very friendly and hospitable. Hopefully, this is the most remarkable memory of your trip to Vietnam. Overnight in Ha Noi.
Day 8

Day 8: Ha Noi - Ha Long Bay (B/L/D)

The wondrous Ha Long Bay is truly one of Vietnam’s most impressive sights. Heading out of town, we will embark by boat for an exploration of legendary Ha Long Bay. Ha Long Bay is home to some 3000 limestone islands that rise out of the clear emerald water. The limestone karsts formations are littered with beaches, grottoes and beautiful caves. Along the way, we will anchor for a leisurely swim in a secluded cove and enjoy a visit to one of the many hidden grottoes beneath towering cliffs. Overnight on the cruise.
Day 9

Day 9: Ha Long Bay - Ha Noi (B/L/-)

After breakfast, swimming and sunbathing. After lunch, return to Ha Noi. Overnight in Ha Noi.
Day 10

Day 10: Ha Noi - Departure (B/-/-)

Have breakfast at the hotel and relax until the time of transfer to Noi Bai International airport for your departure flight.

Trip Map

PRICES & INCLUDES

Option Private Tour Small Group Hotel
 Standard 1130 USD 1190USD 3-star
Deluxe/Superior 1330 USD 1126 USD 4 & 5star

* From prices subject to availability and subject to change. Prices may fluctuate if surcharges, fees, taxes or currency change. Amounts payable to third parties not included. We include all flights as detailed within the trip summary for each tour. From the moment you land in the starting city to the moment you are transferred to the airport in the end city, all transport arrangements are taken care of by us. Agents may charge service fees and/or fees for credit card payments which vary. Please check all prices, availability and other information with your travel consultant before booking. If you book with TUI an additional 3% fee applies to credit card or charge card payments .

INCLUDES:

* all tens hotel accommodation.
* Breakfast daily & All lunches & Dinners.
* All transfers and transport in
modern air-conditioned vehicles.
* Boat trips  and
Halong Bay.
* 2 domestic flights.
* Sightseeing as specified
* Expert Vietnamese local guides
throughout.

EXCLUDES:
  • Hotel EARLY check in & LATE check out
  • Peak season surcharge & compulsory dinner at the hotel (if any)
  • International flights with taxes
  • Visa or Passport Fees
  • Travel Insurance
  • Tips, laundry and gratuities
  • Meals not marked on itinerary, and water during meals

Children Policy

  • The rate for children applicable for one child sharing a twin or double cabin with two adults
  • For infant (<04 years old): FOC except domestic ticket cost
  • 04 – 11 years old without bed: 50% adult rate
  • 04 – 11 years old with extra bed: 75% adult rate
  • 04 – 11 years old in twin share: 90% adult rate

Responsible Travel

TUI practices a thorough, realistic Responsible Travel Policy, full details of which can be found in our website – Click here.

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