classic vietnam northbound

Itinerary

Day 1 Ho Chi Minh City

Experience the never-ending stream of sights and sounds that characterise Saigon, from ancient pagodas, mosques and cathedrals to historic Dong Khoi Street and the enthusiastic vendors in the Ben Thanh Market.

Day 2 Cu Chi Tunnels

Take in a guided full-day tour of the Cu Chi Tunnels and the Cao Dai Great Temple at Tay Ninh. The Cu Chi tunnels played a vital part in the American war because they allowed the Viet Minh to control a large rural area only 30 to 40 km from Saigon. The Cao Dai Temple at Tay Ninh has been described as a Walt Disney-esque 'Fantasia of the East' and is definitely a must-see.

Day 3 Hoi An

Visit the Cham Museum, the Marble Mountains and China Beach en route to Hoi An from Danang Airport. Known as Faifo to early Western traders, this delighful riverside town was one of South-East Asia's most important international ports in the 17th, 18th and 19th centuries and entire streetscapes from that era have survived to this day.

Days 4-5 Hue

Step into the exquisitely embroidered shoes of the Nguyen emperors, while exploring the imperial ruins of Hue at your leisure. A full day is spent learning about the city's royal heritage in the ruins of the Imperial Citadel and at two of the most impressive royal tombs on the city's outskirts. Spend a relaxing evening on a cruise along the Perfume River.

Day 6 Hanoi

See the fascinating Old Quarter, the serene Temple of Literature, the History Museum and the Ngoc Son Temple from the back of a cyclo.

Days 7-8 Halong Bay

Come aboard the Jewel of the Bay, enjoy a sumptuous lunch and soak up the majestic limestone scenery while sailing on the sparkling waters of the Gulf of Tonkin. The afternoon is best spent swimming, sunbathing or kayaking and a night anchored in the bay is a chance to experience complete serenity.

Day 9 Hanoi

Bag a last-minute bargain or have a lazy last morning in Hanoi.