VIETNAM 8 DAYS: HANOI, HALONG BAY, DA NANG, HOI AN & SAIGON | VietNam Signature

Tour overview

VIETNAM 8 DAYS: HANOI, HALONG BAY, DA NANG, HOI AN & SAIGON

This 8-day private journey offers a well-rounded discovery of Vietnam, combining the country’s historic heritage, spectacular natural landscapes, authentic local experiences, and vibrant urban life. Begin in Hanoi with its ancient pagodas, imperial institutions, ethnic heritage, and colonial-era history, followed by the dramatic limestone scenery of Ninh Binh and a full-day cruise through the iconic landscapes of Halong Bay. Continue south to Central Vietnam, where Da Nang’s spiritual landmarks, Marble Mountains, Hoi An’s lantern-lit heritage streets, and the traditional waterways of Cam Thanh reveal a different side of Vietnamese culture. After experiencing the mountain scenery of Ba Na Hills and the Golden Bridge, travel to Ho Chi Minh City to explore the historic Cu Chi Tunnels and the city’s major cultural landmarks. Designed with a balance of guided discovery and leisure, the journey provides an immersive introduction to Vietnam from north to south.

Tour map

Highlight

Discover Hanoi’s Historic Soul – Explore ancient pagodas, the Ho Chi Minh Complex, Temple of Literature, Hoa Lo Prison and the elegant French Quarter.
Explore Ninh Binh’s Timeless Landscapes – Step into Vietnam’s ancient capital at Hoa Lu, climb Mua Cave for sweeping valley views and cruise through Tam Coc by traditional sampan.
Cruise Through Halong Bay – Spend a full day sailing among UNESCO-listed limestone karsts, with Sung Sot Cave, Luon Lagoon and Ti Top Island.
Experience the Magic of Hoi An – Walk through lantern-lit streets, historic merchant houses, traditional assembly halls and the iconic Japanese Covered Bridge.
Connect with Local Life in Cam Thanh – Paddle a traditional basket boat through the peaceful coconut-waterway landscape and experience local fishing traditions.
See Da Nang from Mountain to Sea – Discover Son Tra Peninsula, Linh Ung Pagoda, Marble Mountains and the spectacular Golden Bridge at Ba Na Hills.
Enjoy Da Nang’s Coastal Lifestyle – Balance sightseeing with free time for My Khe Beach, resort relaxation, local seafood and evening city experiences.
Uncover Vietnam’s Wartime History – Explore the remarkable Cu Chi Tunnels and gain insight into life and military strategies during the Vietnam War.
Experience the Energy of Ho Chi Minh City – Discover the Reunification Palace, French-colonial landmarks, War Remnants Museum and vibrant Saigon streets.
Taste Vietnam from North to South – Experience distinctive regional cuisine throughout the journey, from Hanoi’s Northern flavors to the culinary traditions of Central and Southern Vietnam.
One Journey, Three Regions – Experience the contrasts of Northern heritage, Central Vietnam’s culture and coastline, and Southern Vietnam’s history and urban energy in one comprehensive 8-day journey.

Itinerary

Morning Airport Reception: Warm welcome at Noi Bai International Airport (HAN) by our private driver and professional tour guide, followed by a transfer to the city center.

08:30: Begin your historical discovery at Tran Quoc Pagoda, the oldest Buddhist shrine in Hanoi (built in the 6th century), located on Golden Fish Island in West Lake.

09:30: Tour the sacred Ho Chi Minh Complex:

Walk through the presidential grounds to visit the preserved wooden Stilt House where President Ho Chi Minh lived and worked from 1954 to 1969.

Admire the lotus-inspired architecture of the 11th-century One Pillar Pagoda, dedicated to the Goddess of Mercy.

(Note: Please dress respectfully with covered shoulders and knees; Ho Chi Minh's Mausoleum is closed on Mondays and Fridays).

11:15: Visit the Vietnam Museum of Ethnology to explore the traditional costumes and heritage of Vietnam’s 54 ethnic groups. (The Vietnam Women’s Museum is arranged on Mondays as an alternative).

12:45: Savor traditional Northern cuisine during lunch at a local restaurant.

14:00: Visit the Temple of Literature (Van Mieu), founded in 1070 as Vietnam’s first imperial university.

15:15: Tour Hoa Lo Prison Relic (historically named the "Hanoi Hilton" by American POWs during the Vietnam War), learning about Indochina’s colonial and wartime history.

16:30: Return to hotel for check-in and relaxation.

Evening: Free leisure time to explore Hanoi nightlife: enjoy craft egg coffee at the world-famous Hanoi Train Street or sample fresh draft beer on Ta Hien Street.

Overnight: Selected Hotel in Hanoi.

08:00: Pick up from your hotel lobby and travel south through the Red River Delta to Ninh Binh Province (~2 hours).

10:00: Arrive at Hoa Lu Ancient Capital, Vietnam's 10th-century seat of power. Tour the royal sanctuaries honoring King Dinh Tien Hoang and King Le Dai Hanh.

11:15: Hike up 500 stone stairs along the winding dragon ridge of Mua Cave (Hang Mua) for panoramic 360-degree aerial views across the Tam Coc river valley and limestone peaks.

12:30: Relish a traditional lunch at a local restaurant featuring regional specialties and vegetarian choices.

13:45: Proceed to Tam Coc ("Halong Bay on Land"). Board a private, hand-rowed wooden sampan boat along the Ngo Dong River:

Drift through three massive natural caverns (Hang Ca, Hang Hai, Hang Ba) beneath ancient hanging stalactites.

Witness local river life, emerald paddy fields, and soaring limestone karsts.

17:00: Reboard the coach and travel back to Hanoi.

19:30: Arrive back in Hanoi and drop off at your hotel for an evening at leisure.

Overnight: Selected Hotel in Hanoi.

08:30 – 09:00: Morning pickup from your hotel lobby in the Old Quarter and transfer to Tuan Chau Port via the modern expressway by luxury limousine van.

11:30 – 12:00: Arrive at Tuan Chau Marina, board the cruise ship, and attend the welcome safety briefing.

12:15: Savor a Vietnamese seafood and regional lunch onboard while cruising past iconic limestone islets such as Fighting Cocks and Thumb Islet.

13:45 – 14:00: Anchor at Bo Hon Archipelago to explore Sung Sot (Surprise) Cave, marveling at thousands of illuminated stalactites and stalagmites.

15:00: Enjoy kayaking or a bamboo boat ride through Luon Cave to enter a tranquil hidden lagoon.

15:45: Stop at Ti Top Island: swim in the emerald waters or hike to the summit viewing platform for a 360-degree view of Halong Bay.

16:30: Cruise back to Tuan Chau Harbor while enjoying an afternoon Sunset Party with tea, fresh fruits, and pastries on the upper deck.

17:30: Disembark and board the highway transfer back to Hanoi.

20:00: Drop-off at your hotel in Hanoi.

Overnight: Selected Hotel in Hanoi.

Morning: Breakfast at hotel, checkout, and private transfer to Noi Bai Airport (HAN) for your flight to Da Nang (DAD).

Afternoon: Met at Da Nang Airport by your Central Vietnam guide and driver.

13:30: Coastal drive around the Son Tra Peninsula (Monkey Mountain) to visit Linh Ung Pagoda, home to the towering 67-meter white Lady Buddha statue overlooking Da Nang Bay.

15:30: Discover the sacred Marble Mountains (Ngu Hanh Son). Explore Huyen Khong Cave, mountain pagodas, and panoramic view decks, followed by a visit to the 200-year-old Non Nuoc Stone Carving Craft Village.

Late Afternoon: Transfer to Hoi An Ancient Town (UNESCO World Heritage Site).

Evening: Guided walking tour through lantern-lit pedestrian streets: visit the 17th-century Japanese Covered Bridge (featured on the 20,000 VND bill), Phuc Kien Assembly Hall, and Tan Ky Ancient Merchant House.

19:00: Dinner at a local restaurant featuring Central Vietnamese cuisine.

Overnight: Selected Hotel / Resort in Hoi An.

09:00: Pick up from hotel and transfer to Cam Thanh Water Coconut Fishing Village.

10:00: Board traditional round bamboo basket boats (Thung Chai) to paddle through peaceful water coconut canals.

11:00: Join local fishermen to experience cast-net fishing, learn basket boat paddling maneuvers, and watch a spinning boat demonstration.

12:30: Return coach transfer to Da Nang and check in to your hotel.

Afternoon & Evening: Free at leisure. Relax on the sands of My Khe Beach, unwind by the swimming pool, or see the weekend fire-and-water show at the iconic Dragon Bridge.

Overnight: Selected Hotel in Da Nang.

08:00: Pick up from hotel and transfer to Sun World Ba Na Hills (~35 km).

09:00: Board the world-record single-track cable car system to the mountain station.

09:45: Walk across the world-famous Golden Bridge, held aloft by giant mossy stone hands. Explore Le Jardin D’Amour flower gardens, Debay Wine Cellar, and Linh Ung Pagoda.

12:30: Grand International and Vietnamese Buffet Lunch at the mountaintop restaurant.

14:00: Explore the French Village and enjoy indoor amusement games, 4D/5D attractions, and entertainment inside Fantasy Park.

16:00: Descend via cable car and return coach to your hotel.

Evening: Free leisure time for shopping at Han Market or trying fresh local seafood along the coast.

Overnight: Selected Hotel in Da Nang.

Morning: Breakfast at hotel, checkout, and transfer to Da Nang Domestic Airport for your flight to Ho Chi Minh City (SGN).

Midday: Arrive at Tan Son Nhat Airport; meet your Southern guide and driver for transfer to your hotel.

12:30: Depart for an excursion to the historic Cu Chi Tunnels (~1.5 hours).

14:00: Examine concealed trapdoors, bamboo booby traps, field kitchens, and command bunkers.

Experience crawling through a preserved tunnel segment.

Taste boiled tapioca with sesame salt and hot pandan tea (guerilla wartime rations).

(Optional: Target shooting range with vintage firearms available at own expense).

17:00: Depart Cu Chi and drive back to Ho Chi Minh City.

Evening: Free time to explore Saigon nightlife: walk down pedestrian Bui Vien Street or visit central rooftop cafes.

Overnight: Selected Hotel in Ho Chi Minh City.

08:00: Morning guided city tour visiting Saigon's top cultural landmarks:

Reunification Palace (Independence Palace): Historic landmark and seat of South Vietnam's government during the war.

Notre-Dame Cathedral & Central Post Office: Classic examples of French-colonial architecture.

War Remnants Museum: Exhibition of military equipment, historical photography, and wartime artifacts.

12:00: Check out from hotel; enjoy free time for last-minute shopping at Ben Thanh Market.

Afternoon: Private coach transfer to Tan Son Nhat International Airport (SGN) for departure flights.

End of our Vietnam Highlights Tour with unforgettable memories!

BOOK THIS TOUR

Information

Tour prices include

Airport Transfers: Private round-trip airport pickups and drop-offs across Hanoi, Da Nang, and Ho Chi Minh City.
Accommodations: 7 Nights at selected 3-Star or 4-Star central hotels (Twin/Double room sharing basis with daily buffet breakfast).
Halong Bay Cruise: Full-day 5-hour Halong Bay cruise package including seafood lunch, Sung Sot Cave entry, and kayaking/bamboo boat at Luon Cave.
Ground Transportation: Modern air-conditioned tourist vehicles for all scheduled excursions and transfers.
Meals: 7 Daily breakfasts at hotels + 5 main meals (Lunches/Dinners as specified in the program, including Ba Na Hills buffet).
Sightseeing Admissions: All entrance tickets (Hoa Lu, Mua Cave, Tam Coc sampan boat, Marble Mountains, Hoi An Ancient Town, Cam Thanh basket boats, Sun World Ba Na Hills cable car & admission, Cu Chi Tunnels, Reunification Palace, War Remnants Museum).
Tour Guiding: Professional, licensed English-speaking local guides.
Complimentary Water: 1 bottle of mineral water per person on tour days + 2 complimentary bottles in hotel rooms daily.
Government Taxes: 10% VAT and 5% Service Tax.

Exclusion

International and domestic flight tickets (HAN - DAD and DAD - SGN).
Mandatory gratuities/tipping for tour guide and driver: $3 USD / person / day on touring days.
Personal beverages, soft drinks, and alcohol ordered during meals.
Single room supplement surcharge (for private single occupancy).
Early check-in (before 14:00) and late check-out (after 11:00).
Vietnam tourist visa processing fees and comprehensive travel/medical insurance.
Payment transaction fees (3.5% for online credit card payment gateways) or bank wire transfer charges.
Peak holiday surcharges and compulsory gala dinners (Dec 24, Dec 31, Tet Lunar New Year).

Policy

Tour Package Rates (USD per Person)

Seat-in-Coach Option (SIC Tour)

Private airport transfers + shared high-quality group excursions with professional English-speaking guides.

Group Size Tier	2 Pax	4 Pax	6 Pax	8 Pax	10 Pax	Single Sup
Land Tour Only (Without Hotel)	$455	$433	$428	$418	$408	--
Package with 3-Star Hotels	$604	$582	$577	$567	$557	+$160
Package with 4-Star Hotels	$669	$647	$604	$591	$578	+$230

Option for 4-5 stars hotel pls contact us.

Private Tour Option (PVT Tour)

Dedicated private air-conditioned vehicle, private guide throughout, flexible pacing, and customized itinerary.

Group Size Tier	2 Pax	4 Pax	6 Pax	8 Pax	10 Pax	Single Sup
Private Tour Only (Without Hotel)	$728	$693	$654	$642	$616	--
Package with 3-Star Hotels	$877	$842	$803	$771	$755	+$200
Package with 4-Star Hotels	$942	$912	$882	$862	$842	+$320

Dedicated Vehicles Used for Sightseeing & Transfers

Group Size	Vehicle Type Allocated VS 03 - 8D7N with Day cruise
1 – 2 Passengers	4-Seater Modern Sedan (Toyota Vios / Honda City or equivalent)
2 – 4 Passengers	7-Seater Modern SUV/MPV (Toyota Innova / Fortuner or equivalent)
5 – 10 Passengers	16-Seater Van (Ford Transit) or Luxury 9-Seater D-Car Limousine
9 – 14 Passengers	29-Seater Tourist Coach (Hyundai County / Thaco)
15 – 26 Passengers	35-Seater Tourist Coach (Thaco Town / Samco)
27 – 38 Passengers	45-Seater Full-Size Coach (Hyundai Universe)

Booking Policies & Children Terms

Children Policy:

Infant (1 – 3 years old): 100% Free of charge (shares seat and bedding with parents).
Child (4 – 8 years old): 75% of adult rate (allocated vehicle seat; shares existing bed with parents).
Child (9 years and above): 100% of adult rate (treated as adult).

Payment Terms: 20% deposit upon booking confirmation; 80% balance due 07 days prior to arrival date.
Cancellation Policy:

30+ days prior to arrival: 30% cancellation fee.
15 to 29 days prior: 50% cancellation fee.
Less than 15 days or No-Show: 100% non-refundable.

Disclaimer:

In SIC tours there might be waiting time for pick up to 1hr in some cases.
Itinerary can be changed in some cases because of unwanted weather conditions, road blocks or something unexpected happen. In such cases local tour guide and driver will take the decision which will be in best interest for the group.
In some cases, SIC tours pick up time will be little early around 6:30 Am based on our driver and tour guide arrangements.
SIC tours our car cannot wait at hotel so you have to be ready at your pick-up time, if you are late then you have to reach to the next pick-up point on your own.

TIMINGS

Vietnam and our Local staffs (Drivers/Guides) are very particular about timings. Please try to be present on time at the time of pickup. even if it is a private tour. Please discuss with your guide in advance if you want some changes in timings (subjected to possibilities).

GENERAL TERMS & CONDITIONS:

• We will serve the guest according to the mentioned itinerary.

• Unused service in a tour package is non-refundable.

• In case guests fail to clear immigration or declined for entry in Vietnam there will be no refunds.

• If air flights are delayed and guests fail to reach on time, then the land tour company will not be responsible for any additional cost (if any). Guests will take responsibility for the additional cost (if any).

• All the pick-up for tours is from hotels located in the center of the city, if the hotels are self-booked and far away from center there will be a surcharge for pick up, so please provide hotel booking details to know the final price. Or you have to reach to pick up point by yourself.

• Pick up for SIC tours from hotels not located in the center of the city are subject to availability. Even with surcharges sometimes we can’t arrange pick up so you need to reach the meeting point by yourself.

• The prices for packages are valid before 10 days of arrival date, after that there might be some surcharge which will be discussed. So please book early to get the best prices.

• Package includes basic category rooms in hotels and overnight cruise. If you want room upgrades there will be a surcharge.

• We will only confirm the booking and lock the price for the package when we receive the deposit amount.

• We provide transportation for guests with one medium size luggage and a hand baggage, if guests have too much luggage, please check with us and if there is a car upgrade required then extra cost guests have to pay.

• In Vietnam cars run based on the fixed itinerary, so any request for change in itinerary there will be extra charge and it will be subject to availability as well.

Payment Terms

• 20% payment of tour cost upon confirmation of booking.

• 80% balance payment of tour cost 07 days before arrival date