Classic Vietnam with Hands Bridge and Sleeper Train – 10 Days
Overview:
This 10-day tour provides a classic Vietnamese experience, combining breathtaking landscapes, vibrant cities, and a unique sleeper train journey. From the bustling streets of Hanoi to the scenic Halong Bay and the famous Golden Bridge in Da Nang, this tour covers all the highlights. Experience Vietnam’s natural beauty, iconic landmarks, and rich culture while enjoying a memorable ride on the sleeper train.
Itinerary Summary
| Day | Place | Highlights |
| 1 | Arrival in Hanoi | Explore Hanoi Old Quarter, Hoan Kiem Lake |
| 2 | Hanoi | Visit Ho Chi Minh Mausoleum, Temple of Literature |
| 3 | Hanoi to Halong Bay | Halong Bay cruise, overnight on a boat |
| 4 | Halong Bay | Continue cruise, visit Sung Sot Cave |
| 5 | Halong Bay to Hanoi | Return to Hanoi, night sleeper train to Hue |
| 6 | Hue | Visit Imperial City, Pagoda of the Celestial Lady |
| 7 | Hue to Da Nang | Explore Marble Mountains, Golden Bridge |
| 8 | Da Nang | Relax at My Khe Beach, explore local markets |
| 9 | Da Nang to Ho Chi Minh City | Fly to Saigon, visit War Remnants Museum |
| 10 | Ho Chi Minh City | Cu Chi Tunnels, departure |
Itinerary
- Arrive in Hanoi, Vietnam's capital.
- Start by exploring the Old Quarter, a vibrant area with narrow streets full of shops, cafes, and historical buildings.
- Visit Hoan Kiem Lake and Ngoc Son Temple, a picturesque spot in the center of Hanoi.
- In the evening, enjoy a traditional water puppet show or sample local street food.
- Visit the Ho Chi Minh Mausoleum, the final resting place of Vietnam's beloved leader, Ho Chi Minh.
- Explore the One Pillar Pagoda, an iconic structure built on a single pillar in a lake.
- Visit the Temple of Literature, Vietnam's first university, founded in 1070.
- In the afternoon, explore Hanoi’s museums and take a leisurely stroll around the West Lake.
- Enjoy a scenic drive from Hanoi to Halong Bay (around 4 hours).
- Embark on a cruise through the bay, known for its emerald waters and towering limestone islands.
- Onboard activities include swimming, kayaking, or simply relaxing and taking in the stunning views.
- Enjoy a delicious seafood dinner aboard the boat.
- Visit Sung Sot Cave (Surprise Cave), one of Halong Bay's largest and most impressive caves.
- Spend the day exploring more of the bay’s islands, caves, and beaches.
- Participate in optional activities like tai chi on deck at sunrise or enjoy a cooking class on board.
- Relax and enjoy the tranquil surroundings before returning to the hotel in the late afternoon.
- Return to Hanoi by car or bus, and board the sleeper train to Hue, an overnight journey that will take you through the scenic countryside of Vietnam.
- Upon arrival in Hue, Vietnam's former imperial capital, explore the Imperial City (also known as the Citadel), a UNESCO World Heritage site.
- Visit Thien Mu Pagoda, a historic Buddhist temple located by the Perfume River.
- Explore the Tomb of Khai Dinh, a royal tomb known for its blend of Vietnamese and European architectural styles.
- In the evening, enjoy a traditional Hue royal cuisine dinner.
- Travel to Da Nang, a coastal city with stunning landscapes.
- Visit the Marble Mountains, a group of five marble and limestone hills with caves, pagodas, and panoramic views.
- Head to Golden Bridge, a stunning structure held up by giant stone hands, offering breathtaking views of the surrounding mountains and countryside.
- Spend the evening in Da Nang exploring the vibrant Han Market or relaxing at My Khe Beach.
- Spend a relaxing day at My Khe Beach, one of Vietnam’s most beautiful beaches.
- Explore the Han Market, where you can shop for local handicrafts, souvenirs, and fresh produce.
- Optional visit to Ba Na Hills, a mountaintop resort with a cable car ride offering panoramic views.
- Enjoy dinner at a local restaurant with fresh seafood.
- Fly to Ho Chi Minh City (Saigon), the largest city in Vietnam.
- Visit the War Remnants Museum to learn about Vietnam’s history and the impacts of the Vietnam War.
- Take a walking tour of the city’s French colonial architecture, including the Saigon Notre-Dame Cathedral and the Central Post Office.
- Explore Ben Thanh Market for souvenirs and local products.
- Take a half-day trip to the Cu Chi Tunnels, a vast network of underground tunnels used by the Viet Cong during the war.
- Return to Ho Chi Minh City for some last-minute shopping or sightseeing.
- Depart from Tan Son Nhat International Airport for your onward journey.
Inclusions
- 9 nights of accommodation in 3-4 star hotels.
- Sleeper train tickets (Hanoi to Hue).
- All guided tours, including boat trips and entrance fees.
- Meals as indicated in the itinerary.
- Domestic flights (Da Nang to Ho Chi Minh City).
Exclusions
- International flights.
- Personal expenses and tips.
- Travel insurance.
