Vietnam's Culture, History, and Natural Beauty | Yampu Tours

Custom Travel Experiences Since 1998

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Vietnam’s Culture, History, and Natural Beauty

PRIVATE TOUR - 15 DAY SAMPLE ITINERARY

FROM £$ 5565

Private Tour Highlights

  • Get a complete picture of Vietnam’s history and culture
  • See the urban centers, and also the rural villages of Vietnam
  • Gaze at the spectacular beaches and outcroppings of Halong Bay
  • Explore ancient and modern beauty fused together in Saigon
  • Spend the night aboard a traditional sailing junk
  • Visit Hanoi’s Ancient Quarter for a more traditional feel
  • See the many sides of Vietnam
  • Experience the wonder of Halong Bay, recognized by UNESCO
  • See the car that transported the monk Thich Quag Duc to the site of his self-immolation in 1963
  • Savor some delicious seafood on board a Junk boat ride on Halong bay
Interested in this tour?   Let us build you a customized quote based on your budget.

Tour Overview

Let Yampu help you combine Vietnam’s rich culture and history with the country’s natural beauty. This tour includes visits to Vietnam’s cultural destinations in Hanoi, Central Vietnam and Saigon (Ho Chi Minh City) before spending a few relaxing days on the pristine island of Phu Quoc.

Experience the many sides of Vietnam before even leaving the confines of the pleasant capital city of Hanoi. Trees line the streets with elegant French architecture around every corner; nationalist monuments to the great Ho Chi Minh are displayed throughout with pride; and age old customs and traditions remain unchanged in the city’s Ancient Quarter.

Halong Bay is often called Vietnam’s eighth wonder of the world and once visited, it is hard to dispute that claim. Over 1,900 islands with spectacular limestone outcroppings, cliffs, arches and coves compete for space in an area that is without a doubt the most naturally beautiful in the country; an incomparable coastal scenery. Not only is the area a UNESCO World Heritage Site, but it is a must see for any trip to Vietnam.

Known to hold the largest collection of Cham artifacts in the world, Danang is the entry point into Central Vietnam. A quick walking tour of Hoi An will show you around this charming port, which amazingly survived the ravages of war and remains one of the area’s more charming towns. Then, visit the ancient Citadel, mausoleums and tombs of Hue, a popular UNESCO World Heritage Site.

Saigon (Ho Chi Minh City) is surely one of the most evocative place names in Asia and definitely one of the most extraordinary cities in the world. The most Western in atmosphere of Vietnam’s cities, it is an amazing place of contrasts: elegant new international hotels, exclusive restaurants and trendy bars side by side with roadside noodle stalls, street vendors and vociferous cyclist drivers. After having seen the sights of Saigon, you will be ready to enjoy the rest of your trip on the fine tropical island of Phu Quoc, just off of the southern coast of Cambodia.

Inclusions
Price Includes:
Domestic airfare from Hanoi to Danang and Hue to Saigon (Ho Chi Minh City), Hotel accommodation including continental or buffet breakfast, Private transfers between airports and hotels with assistance and baggage handling, Private guided tours in English including all entrance fees, Meals where specified (food only), Bottled water and cool towels provided for transfers and sightseeing, Vietnam government tax and service charge, Local airport taxes that are payable in the country of destination are not included. Taxes and security fees that can be paid at time of ticketing are already included in the quote (if airfare has been included in the quote)

Notes:
* Additional supplements may apply between 19 December – 8 January.

* Additional supplements may apply during the weeks immediately preceding and following the Lunar (Chinese) New Year. The dates vary each year, but fall sometime between January 21st and February 20th:
2016 – Monday, February 8th
2017 – Saturday, January 28th
2018 – Friday, February 16th

* Halong Bay cruise ship operation may be subject to current weather conditions. If your cruise does not operate due to undesirable conditions, an alternate itinerary will be provided; please enquire with your Yampu Tours Travel Consultant for additional details.
Best Time to Travel
JAN FEB MAR APR MAY JUN
JUL AUG SEP OCT NOV DEC

Best Good Consult

Package Price: From £$ 5565

Prices shown above are per person. Hotel categories do not adhere strictly to international ratings; Yampu has evaluated the hotels according to destination and availability. Prices include local airfare (where applicable), hotel accommodation including daily breakfast; all transfers with baggage handling, all guided tours in English and all entrance fees.

Please note that prices are subject to change based on availability and seasonality, especially during the holiday season from December 20th through January 5th each year. Please contact a Yampu Travel Specialist for more information on best times to travel.

Trip Type:

All our trips are operated on a private basis unless specified otherwise. This is only a sample itinerary; your Yampu Tour Consultant will personalize this trip for you according to your available dates, interests and type of hotels. This is your trip and we will work on making it perfect!

Tour Itinerary

Day
1

International flight to Hanoi

Overnight international flight to Hanoi.

Overnight international flight to Hanoi.

Day
2

Arrival in Hanoi

Upon arrival in Hanoi, airport reception and transfer to the hotel in a private vehicle. Depending on arrival time, spend the remainder of the day at leisure.

Upon arrival in Hanoi, airport reception and transfer to the hotel in a private vehicle. Depending on arrival time, spend the remainder of the day at leisure.

Day
3

City tour of Hanoi

Morning read more...

Morning tour of the Ho Chi Minh Complex with a private guide. Visit Ba Dinh Square, where silent sentries guard the marble and granite mausoleum where Ho Chi Minh lies in state. See the simple cottage where Uncle Ho lived and worked and visit the nearby Ho Chi Minh Museum - an extraordinary tribute to the life of the "father of the country." Carry on to the Governor's Residence, a fine example of Hanoi's French architecture, followed by a stop at the One Pillar Pagoda to hear the legend of its construction.

Enjoy lunch at a local restaurant followed by a private afternoon tour of the Hanoi City highlights. Marvel at the tree lined streets on the way to the Opera House and pass by Hoan Kiem Lake en route to one of the city's fascinating museums of choice: the Museum of History of Vietnamese Military, Vietnam History Museum, or Vietnam Fine Arts Museum. Continue to the Temple of Literature, built in 1070 and dedicated to Confucius, for a quick escape from the busy streets. Afterwards, enjoy a private guided walking tour of the Ancient Quarter, also known as the 36 Streets District, where there is a nice mix of ancient homes, temples and small shops.

Note: The Ho Chi Minh Museum is closed for maintenance on Mondays and Fridays from September to November annually.
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Hanoi-Opera-House-vietnam
Day
4

Pagodas of Hanoi

Take a morning excursion outside of Hanoi to the surrounding countryside with a private guide. Rich in Buddhism, the north of Vietnam is home to the country's most colorful and revered pagodas and temples. The Thay Pagoda (Master's Pagoda) is located 40 kilometers (25 miles) southwest of Hanoi. While a temple is a place to worship the dead, a pagoda is a place to worship the Lord Buddha. Thay Pagoda is widely known for its finely carved lacquer and gold statues of Buddha in his past and present form, as well as the colorful Buddhist ceremonies performed here during auspicious dates of the Lunar calendar.

Only 6 kilometers (4 miles) away lies Tay Phuong Pagoda, situated at the top of a small hillock. Built in 1794, the pagoda is famous for its vast display of finely carved wooden statues of former monks from the 18th Century. Afterwards, return to Hanoi to enjoy the rest of the day at leisure. Lunch is included today.
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Hanoi-Thay-Pagoda-Vietnam-Tour
Day
5

Hanoi – Halong Bay

Depart Hanoi in the morning for an approximately 3.5-hour direct drive to Halong Bay. Upon arrival, get on a boat to begin the cruise. While the junk is passing many islets, rocks, caves, floating villages and beaches on Halong Bay, a lunch of fresh seafood will be served on board. Then visit the Thien Cung and Dau Go Caves, the most beautiful among the thousands in the bay. Return to land for a late afternoon hotel check-in and enjoy the evening at leisure.

Note: If guests would prefer to stay overnight on a boat, please contact a travel consultant. This option comes highly recommended.
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Hanoi-Sunset-on-Halong-Bay
Day
6

Halong Bay – Hanoi

Depart Halong to return to Hanoi and enjoy lunch at a local restaurant en route. Drop off at the hotel in Hanoi and enjoy the remainder of the day at leisure.

Depart Halong to return to Hanoi and enjoy lunch at a local restaurant en route. Drop off at the hotel in Hanoi and enjoy the remainder of the day at leisure.

halong-bay-vietnam601608
Day
7

Hanoi – Danang

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Private morning transfer to the airport for a flight to Danang. Upon arrival, airport reception and private transfer to the city for a visit to the Cham Museum. Then continue on to visit Hoi An. Close by Danang is My Khe Beach, immortalized for many by U.S. television shows, and still one of the most spectacular beaches in Asia. Also nearby are the Marble Mountains. A climb inside through the hundreds of natural caves and grottoes is a must.

Enjoy lunch at a local restaurant (included) in Hoi An before taking a walking tour with a private guide through this small town. Wander the completely traffic-free streets and discover the historic old town center before transferring to the hotel. Enjoy the evening at leisure.
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Danang-My-Son-Ruins
Day
8

Danang – Hue

Morning read more...

Morning transfer to Hue in a private vehicle. The overland journey will take guests through the most beautiful scenery in Vietnam while traversing the Hai Van or "Cloudy Pass." There will be plenty of photo opportunities and stops at beaches en route. Upon arrival, enjoy lunch at a local restaurant (included).

This afternoon, take a private guided tour of the Imperial Citadel. In the early 19th century, when the Nguyen Dynasty ruled Vietnam from Hue, the Emperor constructed a mighty citadel from where he could both live and rule. The resulting Imperial Citadel was modeled on the Forbidden City in Beijing, but suffered much damage during years of war. Many of the pavilions, bridges, libraries and great halls are now being carefully restored with help from UNESCO. Marvel at the legends of the Nguyen Dynasty emperors who built the fortress and lived within its moated walls for nearly 150 years.
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Hue-Citadel-Entrance
Day
9

Thien Mu Pagoda & tomb of Minh Mang

This morning, visit the Thein Mu Pagoda with a private boat and guide. Built in 1601 between a river and a pine forest, the "Heavenly Lady Pagoda" is one of the oldest and most attractive religious buildings in the country. Among the many interesting artifacts housed at the complex is the car that transported the monk Thich Quag Duc to the site of his self-immolation in 1963 Saigon.

Continue by boat to the less visited, yet most majestic of all of Hue's tombs - the tomb of Minh Mang. Built around 1840, this tomb is well known for its harmonious blend of architecture and the natural landscape. Enjoy lunch at a local restaurant and the remainder of the day at leisure.
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Hue-Thien-Mu-Pagoda
Day
10

Hue – Saigon

Morning read more...

Morning transfer to the Hue airport for a flight to Saigon (Ho Chi Minh City). Upon arrival, airport reception and transfer to the hotel. After check-in, enjoy an afternoon tour of China Town with a private guide. Cholon, which literally translates to "big market", is the focus of the Chinese community in Saigon. See the former Presidential Palace, Notre Dame Cathedral, and Saigon Post Office. Continue on to visit the impressive Thien Hau Temple dedicated to the goddess of the seas, who is said to protect fishermen and sailors. Here, huge coils of incense hang from the ornate ceiling, and can burn for up to three months at a time. Visit Binh Tay Market and the surrounding area, which bustles with trading activity. Return to the hotel. ...read less

Saigon-Night-Vietnam
Day
11

City Tour of Saigon

Morning read more...

Morning city tour with a private guide. In this essential highlight tour, visit the former Presidential Palace, which is now preserved as a museum, including the underground communications bunkers, headquarters for the Saigon Government during the American War. Continue to the History Museum, which houses an excellent display tracing the origins of the indigenous Vietnamese. Take the opportunity to see a delightful performance of water puppetry in the grounds. Then visit the Saigon Notre-Dame Basilica, an impressive neo-Romanesque cathedral in the center of city, the "wedding cake" styled Hotel De Ville, and Dong Khoi street, formerly the center of haute couture in Saigon (Ho Chi Minh City) when it was known as Rue Catinat.

Enjoy lunch at a local restaurant followed by a privately guided half day tour to the Cu Chi Tunnels. This vast underground network of tunnels was first built as a defense against the French, and later expanded during the American War. It was from here that the North Vietnamese waged their guerrilla warfare. Marvel at the ingenuity and resilience of secret trapdoors, underground kitchens, living areas and meeting rooms.

The more adventurous travelers may explore the deeper second, and even third level tunnels. For those preferring to remain above ground, there is ample opportunity to view excavated areas from above. THe guide will advise guests of the length and level of difficulty of each tunnel before entering. Some are easily accessed by stairs. Return to Saigon (Ho Chi Minh City) in the late afternoon and enjoy the evening at leisure.
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Saigon-City-View
Day
12

Saigon – Phu Doc

Transfer to the airport for a flight to Phu Quoc. Upon arrival, airport reception and transfer to the hotel in a private vehicle. Enjoy the remainder of the day at leisure.

Transfer to the airport for a flight to Phu Quoc. Upon arrival, airport reception and transfer to the hotel in a private vehicle. Enjoy the remainder of the day at leisure.

Phu-Quoc-Sao-Bay-Vietnam
Day
13

Beaches of Phu Doc

Enjoy a full day free for independent exploration of the island. Visitors can experience the culture of Vietnam at the local market in the morning, relax on a remote and stunning beach in the afternoon and enjoy a delicious dinner and drinks at one of the restaurants in the evening.

Enjoy a full day free for independent exploration of the island. Visitors can experience the culture of Vietnam at the local market in the morning, relax on a remote and stunning beach in the afternoon and enjoy a delicious dinner and drinks at one of the restaurants in the evening.

Phu-Quoc-Beach-Vietnam
Day
14

Exploring Phu Doc

Enjoy the day at leisure.

Enjoy the day at leisure.

Phu-Quoc-Boats-Vietnam
Day
15

International flight home via Saigon

Depending on departure time, spend the day at leisure and then transfer to the airport for a flight to Saigon (Ho Chi Minh City), to connect with a flight home or continue an optional Yampu Tours add-on.

Depending on departure time, spend the day at leisure and then transfer to the airport for a flight to Saigon (Ho Chi Minh City), to connect with a flight home or continue an optional Yampu Tours add-on.

Hanoi, Vietnam

Halong Bay Vietnam, Hàng Bạc, Hanoi, Vietnam

Hoi An, Quang Nam Province, Vietnam

Huế, Thua Thien Hue, Vietnam

Ho Chi Minh City Hall, Lê Thánh Tôn, Saigon, Ho Chi Minh, Vietnam

Phú Quốc, Phu Quoc, Vietnam

Places You'll See

  • Hanoi_City_View_Vietnam

    Hanoi

    Meaning “embraced by the river”, Hanoi is the capital of Vietnam. Visit the many temples and parks of this beautiful city, such as the Temple of Literature or Hoan Kiem Lake Park. Visit the Army Museum and hear retellings of many battles fought throughout the country’s history. Take the little ones to the Ha Noi circus for some family fun.

  • halong-bay-vietnam284606

    Halong Bay

    Halong Bay is known as one of the most beautiful bays in the world. With roughly 1,600 limestone islands, each covered in thick vegetation, it has extreme aesthetic value. Home to a small fishing community of people living on floating houses. Enjoy “junk boat” tours, or a rent a kayak and explore.

  • Danang_Sunset

    Danang

    There is much to do in the busy city of Danang. View the artistic quality of the sandstone sculptures in the Cham Museum. Hike the trails of the Marble Mountains and explore the Buddhist temples built into the caves and grottoes. Take a Da Nang Food Tour and experience the sights, sounds, and flavors of the city, then spend time relaxing on one of the beaches.

  • Royal_Palace_benches_Hue_Vietnam

    Hue

    Once the imperial capital of Vietnam, Hue is a city rich in history and culture. During the Vietnam war, much of the city was destroyed, but the buildings and ruins that are left are worth visiting. Much of the Imperial Citadel still stands and houses interesting shops, museums, and galleries. See the Tombs of the Emperors along the pristine Perfume River.

  • ho-chi-minh-city-Saigon

    Saigon (Ho Chi Minh City)

    The metropolitan Ho Chi Minh City is always bustling with activity, and full of historical attractions. Visit the beautiful French-built Catholic Notre Dame Cathedral in the city center. For a look at the Vietnam War through the eyes of the Vietnamese, take a tour of the War Remnants Museum. And for unbelievable views of the city, visit the Saigon Skydeck in the Bitexco Financial Tower.

  • Phu-Quoc-Vietname_pink_sunrise

    Phu Quoc

    Relax on the white, sandy beaches of Phu Quoc. Go squid fishing, or snorkeling. Take a boat tour around the island, or visit the Phu Quoc National Park. Purchase a wide array of souvenirs and seafood delicacies at the local night market, or watch the sunset at the Pho Bo Caf�, overlooking the lighthouse and shrine.

  • Hoi_An_Vietnam

    Hoi An

    Once a trading port in the 15th century, this beautifully preserved city is a prime example of Southeast Asian culture. The architecture showcases a fascinating blend of local and foreign influences. Enjoy exploring the old town by motorbike, kayak, motorboat, and more. Visit the Museum of Folk Culture and learn about traditional Vietnamese dress and culture.

Hotel Options

3 Star Properties

Hanoi : Church Boutique Hotel Hang Gai

Hanoi : La Belle Vie Hotel

Hanoi : Golden Silk Boutique Hotel

Hanoi : Skylark Hotel

Halong Bay : Royal Lotus Hotel Halong

Halong Bay : Halong Plaza Hotel

Hoi An : Essence Hotel & Spa

Hoi An : Ancient House Village Resort

Hoi An : Vinh Hung Riverside Resort

Hoi An : Phu Thinh Boutique Resort & Spa

Hue : Mondial Hotel

Saigon (Ho Chi Minh City) : Aquari Hotel

Saigon (Ho Chi Minh City) : Asian Ruby Luxury Hotel

Phu Quoc : Famiana Resort & Spa

Phu Quoc : Mango Bay Resort

Phu Quoc : Cassia Cottage

4 Star Properties

Hanoi : Silk Path Hotel

Hanoi : Sunway Hotel

Hanoi : Mercure Hanoi La Gare

Halong Bay : Novotel Hotel Halong

Halong Bay : Royal Lotus Hotel Halong (Junior Suite)

Hoi An : Boutique Hoi An Resort

Hoi An : Sunrise Hoi An Beach Resort

Hoi An : Palm Garden Beach Resort & Spa

Hoi An : Hoi An Chic Hotel

Hue : Saigon Morin

Hue : Eldora Hotel

Hue : Imperial Hue Hotel

Saigon (Ho Chi Minh City) : Liberty Central Riverside Hotel

Saigon (Ho Chi Minh City) : Hotel Majestic Saigon

Phu Quoc : La Veranda Resort

Phu Quoc : Chen Sea Resort & Spa

5 Star Properties

Hanoi : Hotel De L’Opera

Hanoi : Melia Hotel

Halong Bay : Novotel Hotel Halong (Executive Room)

Hoi An : Hotel Royal Hoi An

Hoi An : Anantara Hoi An Resort

Hoi An : Alma Courtyard Hoi An Resort

Hue : La Residence Hotel & Spa

Hue : Pilgrimage Village Boutique Resort & Spa

Saigon (Ho Chi Minh City) : InterContinental Asiana Saigon

Saigon (Ho Chi Minh City) : Caravelle Hotel

Phu Quoc : The Shells

Luxury Properties

Hanoi : Sofitel Legend Metropole

Hoi An : The Nam Hai

Hue : Vedana Lagoon Resort & Spa (Aqua Bungalow)

Saigon (Ho Chi Minh City) : Park Hyatt Hotel

Testimonials

Jeff N.

Traveled June, 2014

Everything met, or exceeded our expectations!

We did not know what to expect with our trip to Vietnam, but everything met, or exceeded our expectations! The guides were both excellent, and added their own local perspective to the areas we explored. All of the included meals were excellent, and exceeded our expectations!

Traveled To

Pritam D.

Traveled October, 2012

We had a nice visit to Vietnam and Cambodia.

We had a nice visit to Vietnam and Cambodia. We enjoyed it a lot and will recommend to other people.

Traveled To


B+T

Traveled July, 2014

Our trip was fantastic!

Our trip was fantastic! We were met us at the airport in Saigon when we arrived and shuttled to the Hotel, the guide got us settled in and arranged the schedule with us for the next day. Each day we knew in advance what was planned and had enough time to relax too. Both guides (in the South and Central Regions) were very good. We also had a private driver in our van which was constantly stocked with cold bottled water and moist wipes for cooling off after every activity. In general the Hotels were all excellent and a couple were even better (Hoi-An and Victoria Chau-Doc). Both guides were flexible to our needs and very personable and accommodating. We had ample food and it was all great. On a couple of occasions the Guide in the Central Region even made adjustments to our Menu to make certain that we got better items (which we appreciated). We got Heavy rain on one day only and that was the day that we were driving back to Saigon from the Mekong delta, so we were safely ensconced in the Van. We saw a lot in our time there but we really have no complaints at all. The guides in country were excellent in keeping us on schedule without making us feel hurried. In Saigon the last night we even arranged for an extension of the Hotel room (for half a day) and a show that started at 8PM that evening. The guide arranged to pick our luggage up for us at the hotel and then come pick us up after the show at the Opera House and get us to the Airport in time for our flight back to Tokyo. If we go back again we will certainly be happy to use you again.

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