Vietnam Flavors Experience & Beach Relax 11 days

From: $655 4-star hotels

4.9

(108 reviews)

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Duration

11 Days

Tour Type

Daily Tour

Group Size

Unlimited

Languages

English

About this tour

Hanoi – Halong Bay – Da Nang – Hoi An – Ho Chi Minh City – Phu Quoc

Embarking on our 11-day Vietnam Flavors Experience & Beach Relax tour presents an incredible chance for a private group eager to explore diverse cuisines. Beyond participating in Vietnamese cooking classes, you’ll also discover iconic tourist spots and historical landmarks, each offering distinct and captivating experiences that unveil Vietnam’s rich history. Following days filled with exploration, the tour concludes with leisure time, allowing you to unwind and soak up the beauty of a stunning beach. Let’s commence this journey through Vietnam, crafting unforgettable memories that will endure a lifetime!

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

Upon Arrival:

Upon arrival in Hanoi, proceed directly to the hotel for check-in and relaxation.
Afternoon:

Check-in time is at 14:00. Early check-in may incur an additional fee.
Enjoy leisure time to unwind or explore the city at your own pace. Alternatively, we offer optional activities:
Water Puppet Show: Immerse yourself in Vietnam's cultural legacy with captivating water puppet performances, narrating tales of history and legends on the water's surface.
Vietnamese Cooking Class or Foodie Tours: Delve into the culinary delights of Hanoi's Old Quarter with either a food tour or an engaging cooking class.
If any of these services pique your interest, please contact our travel agent for further details.
Note: Please gather at Pole No.10 (Outside the Terminal Gate) to connect with our representatives.

Accommodation: Hanoi Hotel

<span> Day 2</span> Hanoi City Tour by Mortobike

Morning:

Embark on the Hanoi City Tour, immersing yourself in the city's rich cultural tapestry:
Experience the iconic Egg Coffee, a must-try for coffee enthusiasts and non-coffee drinkers alike.
Explore the landmarks like Long Bien Bridge/Chuong Duong Bridge, each offering picturesque views and excellent photo opportunities.
Visit Nha Hat Lon (Hanoi Opera House), an architectural marvel constructed during the early 20th century under French governance.
Discover Ho Guom (Hoan Kiem Lake), a serene and picturesque lake nestled in the heart of the old quarter.
Witness Nha Tho Lon (St. Joseph's Cathedral), a stunning Roman Catholic cathedral that echoes the design of Notre Dame de Paris.
Explore Hoa Lo Prison, once used for holding political prisoners during French colonial rule.
Encounter the expansive Ho Tay (West Lake), boasting historical sites, trendy restaurants, cafes, and vibrant nightlife venues along its shoreline.
Visit Tran Quoc Pagoda, dating back to the sixth century, claimed as Vietnam's oldest religious structure, situated on an island in West Lake.
Explore Huu Tiep Lake and The B52, a significant historical site showcasing Vietnam's victory during the Vietnam War, providing insights into local daily life at a nearby market.
Pay respects at the Ho Chi Minh Mausoleum, a revered site preserving Ho Chi Minh's remains.
Conclude your sightseeing with an authentic Vietnamese lunch in the Old Quarter.
Return to your hotel after the tour.
Note: The above itinerary may be altered based on daily weather and traffic conditions.

Accommodation: Hotel in Hanoi

<span> Day 3</span> Hanoi - Ha Long Bay - Overnight on Cruise

Morning:

Embark on a 2-day, 1-night cruise tour to Ha Long Bay, an exceptional UNESCO World Heritage Site renowned for its breathtaking natural allure.
Noon:

Receive a warm welcome aboard the boat by the crew, accompanied by a refreshing welcome drink.
Marvel at the mesmerizing sight of thousands of limestone islands and caves emerging from the crystalline waters.
Indulge in a delectable seafood feast served onboard during the sightseeing.
Afternoon:

Engage in various activities such as cave exploration, kayaking, or sea swimming (depending on the cruise itinerary).
Return to the junk for relaxation and leisure.
Evening:

Delight in a flavorsome dinner onboard.
Spend the night on the luxurious cruise. Take part in diverse nighttime activities like squid fishing or card games.

Accommodation: Halong Bay Cruise

<span> Day 4</span> Ha Long Bay - Hanoi - Fly to Da Nang - Hoi An

Morning:

Engage in Tai-chi sessions during the early hours.
Savor your breakfast while the cruise guides you through several breathtaking bay caves for a final sightseeing tour.
Noon:

Return to the main dock for the transfer back to Hanoi. Enjoy a brunch meal served on the journey.
Proceed to Noi Bai airport for your flight to Da Nang.
Afternoon:

Arrive at Da Nang airport.
Our tour guide will accompany you to the hotel in Hoi An for check-in and an overnight stay.

Accommodation: Hotel in Hoi An

<span> Day 5</span> Hoi An Cooking Class and Walking City Tour full day

Morning:

Commence your day at 8:15 at Hai Scout Cafe, the designated meeting spot. While enjoying coffee, take in the vibrant colors of Hoi An's bustling primary market.

Embark on a 25-minute cruise along Hoi An River to the Red Bridge Cooking School. Explore the herb and vegetable garden, gaining insights into Hoi An and Vietnam's renowned cuisine.

Indulge in a selection of highlighted dishes including:

Fresh Rice Paper: Rice paper filled with vegetables, meat, or seafood.
Fresh Rice Paper Rolls with Shrimp: Rice paper rolls stuffed with shrimp.
Crispy Hoi An Pancakes with Shrimp, Herbs & Peanut Sauce: Pancakes filled with pork, bean sprouts, and more.
Seafood Salad with Assorted Vietnamese Herbs served in a Half Pineapple: A signature Hoi An salad.
Mi Quang Chicken Noodles: Turmeric-tinted noodles with chicken and fresh herbs.
Noon:

Relish a lunch feast featuring the dishes you've prepared, concluding around 12:30.
Return to central Hoi An, reaching approximately by 13:00.
Afternoon:

Stroll through historic neighborhoods and past significant sites.
Explore the local routines, witnessing the blend of history and modernity.
Visit ancient monuments such as the Japanese Covered Bridge or the Fujian Assembly Hall.
Quench your thirst and savor authentic Hoi An flavors with a street-side herbal drink.
Drop by a handicraft store, observing the creation of unique souvenirs and having the chance to purchase some.

Accommodation: Hotel in Hoi An

<span> Day 6</span> Hoi An, Da Nang - fly to Ho Chi Minh City

Morning:

Proceed to Da Nang Airport for a flight to Ho Chi Minh City.
Upon arrival at Tan Son Nhat International Airport, our designated driver will be ready to escort you to the centrally located hotel.
Check-in and relish the freedom to explore the city at your leisure.

Accommodation: Hotel in Ho Chi Minh City

<span> Day 7</span> Full day Cooking Class with Ho Chi Minh City tour

Morning:

Commence your tour at 7:30 and reach HCM Agricultural Villages by 8:30.
*) Explore HCM Agricultural Villages from 8:30 to 10:00:

Tour various sections featuring cow, buffalo, fish, prawn, chicken, and duck habitats.
Engage in activities at the Big Herbs, Spices, Vegetables, and Mushrooms areas, donning a traditional Vietnamese farmer's hat to immerse yourself in the garden.
*) Culinary Challenges from 10:00 to 13:30:

Participate in a hands-on cooking class crafting three dishes and one dessert, followed by relishing these delicacies.
Receive certificates, recipes, and souvenirs.
Share emails for monthly recipe updates.
*) Discover Cho Lon Market, Chinatown from 13:30 to 15:00:

Experience authentic Chinese restaurants and captivating examples of classical Chinese architecture at Cholon Market.
Explore the Great Temple.
*) Explore the War Remnants Museum from 15:00 to 16:30:

The War Remnants Museum stands as a memorial gallery, "Requiem," honoring the journalists and photographers who lost their lives during the Vietnam War.
*) Visit Notre Dame Cathedral and the Central Post Office from 16:30 to 17:15:

Notre Dame Cathedral was built using materials imported from France. The Central Post Office, a remarkable example of French architecture, stands as Vietnam's largest post office.
Return to the hotel by 17:30.

Accommodation: Hotel in Ho Chi Minh City

<span> Day 8</span> Ho Chi Minh City to Phu Quoc

Morning:

Enjoy leisure time until your scheduled transfer to the airport for your flight to Phu Quoc.
Upon arrival at Phu Quoc Airport, our team will assist you in reaching the resort for check-in and relaxation.

Accommodation: Resort in Phu Quoc

<span> Day 9+10</span> Phu Quoc Free day

Morning:

Utilize your leisure time for various activities at your discretion, including swimming, strolling, or snorkeling.
Evening:

Spend the night in Phu Quoc.

Accommodation: Hotel in Phu Quoc

<span> Day 11</span> Phu Quoc fly back to Ho Chi Minh

Morning:

Get ready to depart for the airport to return to Ho Chi Minh City. The tour concludes at this point.

Accommodation: Not Applicable

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

Hanoi - Halong Bay - Da Nang - Hoi An - Ho Chi Minh City - Phu Quoc

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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4.9/5

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(108 Reviews)

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108 reviews on this Tour - Showing 106 to 108

Gianna

20/02/2025

Excellent!

We were unsure about booking a Myanmar tour online, but VTP Travel proved it was the best decision. From warm welcomes to efficient planning, everything exceeded expectations. Our guide spoke excellent English and introduced us to authentic moments that we’ll treasure forever.

Paola

19/02/2025

Excellent!

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

Griffin

18/02/2025

Excellent!

I was initially hesitant about booking online, but VTP Travel’s Cambodia tour completely changed my mind. Their team was quick to respond to all my questions, tailoring the itinerary to suit my preferences. The hotels were comfortable and clean, and the English-speaking guides provided rich cultural context that made the journey memorable.