TIMELESS VIETNAM
Visiting: Hanoi, Halong, Hoi An, Da Nang, Hue, Ho Chi Minh
From the tree-lined boulevards and historic temples of Hanoi to the spectacular limestone landscapes of Halong Bay and the colourful streets of Hoi An, Vietnam is a journey of remarkable contrasts. Discover the cultural treasures of the capital, travel through the rice fields and dramatic scenery of Ninh Binh, and cruise amongst the extraordinary islands of UNESCO-listed Halong Bay before continuing south to experience some of the country’s most captivating destinations.
Rich in history, culture and tradition, Vietnam offers experiences that reveal the true character of this fascinating country. Explore the beautifully preserved heritage of Hoi An, admire the spectacular Golden Bridge at Ba Na Hills and journey across the scenic Hai Van Pass to the former imperial capital of Hue. Discover magnificent pagodas, royal tombs and the historic Imperial Citadel while experiencing traditional crafts, local markets and authentic Vietnamese flavours along the way.
From exploring the remarkable Cu Chi Tunnels and discovering the energy of Ho Chi Minh City to cruising through the lush waterways of the Mekong Delta, every stage of the journey brings a new experience. Meet local communities, sample tropical fruits and traditional specialities, and travel by boat through peaceful canals surrounded by dense vegetation; unforgettable moments that capture Vietnam’s extraordinary landscapes, fascinating history and warm hospitality.
FOR THOSE WHO PREFER TO GO GUIDED!
DAY 1: MALTA - VIETNAM
Meet your ROCS Travel Tour Manager at Malta International Airport for your flight to Vietnam.
DAY 2: HANOI
Arrive in Hanoi and transfer to your 5* Grand Mercure Hanoi Hotel for check-in. The rest of the day offers the opportunity to get your first impression of Vietnam’s fascinating capital.
DAY 3: HANOI
After breakfast, begin your tour of Hanoi, the capital of Vietnam and a city characterised by tree-lined avenues, French colonial architecture, peaceful lakes and oriental temples.
The tour includes a visit to the Temple of Literature, the country’s first university, founded in 1070 and considered one of Hanoi’s most important cultural landmarks. Continue to the Museum of Ethnology (closed on Mondays), where you can discover a varied and fascinating collection showcasing Vietnam’s diverse cultures and ethnic groups.
Continue to the Ho Chi Minh Mausoleum, viewing it from the outside from Ba Dinh Square, before visiting the One Pillar Pagoda. Built in 1049 by Emperor Ly Thai Tong, who reigned from 1028 to 1054, this distinctive wooden pagoda stands on a single stone pillar and was designed to resemble a lotus blossom, an important Buddhist symbol.
In the afternoon, enjoy an experience centred around flowers and the traditional Vietnamese art of arranging them. Visit a handcrafted flower shop to discover how bouquets are created and how this beautiful spiritual tradition has been preserved and passed down through generations. Guests will learn to recognise exotic flowers while preparing a traditional flower offering.
Later, visit Ngoc Son Temple, situated on a small island in the middle of Hoan Kiem Lake.
Finally, enjoy a panoramic cyclo ride through Hanoi’s Old Quarter, also known as the neighbourhood of the 36 Streets. Historically, each street was associated with a particular craft or trade, creating one of the city’s most distinctive and atmospheric districts.
DAY 4: HANOI - HOA LU - TAM COC - HANOI
After breakfast, depart Hanoi at approximately 8:30am and travel towards Ninh Binh Province. After approximately two to three hours, depending on traffic, arrive in Hoa Lu, the former capital of Vietnam during the 10th century.
Along the way, admire countless rice fields surrounded by dramatic karst rock formations and limestone caves. This spectacular region is often referred to as the “Dry Halong Bay”.
Visit Hoa Lu, the former royal capital of Vietnam, including the 10th-century temples dedicated to King Dinh and King Le. Discover the fascinating stories of these two rulers and their role in Vietnam’s history.
Continue to Tam Coc, meaning “three caves”, where you will board a traditional boat rowed by local people using their feet. Enjoy a scenic 90-minute journey through beautiful rice fields and spectacular limestone scenery, passing through the three famous caves of Hang Ca, Hang Giua and Hang Cuoi.
DAY 5: HANOI - HALONG BAY
After breakfast, depart by road towards Halong Bay, travelling through the rich agricultural landscapes of the Red River Delta. Pass rice fields, rural villages and water buffalo, offering a fascinating glimpse into traditional Vietnamese countryside life.
Upon arrival in Halong, embark aboard the 5* Paradise Elegance Cruise. After lunch, continue sailing through the spectacular bay, discovering its many distinctive limestone islands and formations.
Enjoy some free time on board before taking part in a Vietnamese cooking demonstration on the sun terrace. Dinner will be served on board.
DAY 6: HALONG - HANOI - HOI AN
Continue sailing through Halong Bay while enjoying its spectacular and unique landscapes. At sunrise, guests who wish to participate can enjoy a Tai Chi class on the sun terrace.
Later, enjoy brunch on board before beginning the journey back to shore. Disembark at Halong Pier and transfer by road to Hanoi Airport for your flight to Da Nang.
Upon arrival, transfer directly to Hoi An and check in at the 5* Hotel Royal Hoi An, MGallery.
DAY 7: HOI AN
After breakfast, begin your visit to Hoi An, an important Asian trading port during the 17th and 18th centuries. Its historic architecture and relaxed way of life have remained remarkably well preserved.
Enjoy a boat ride along the Thu Bon River, passing small villages along its banks, before arriving in the Old Town. Continue on foot through the historic centre, visiting Phung Hung Old House, the more than 400-year-old Japanese Covered Bridge, the Phuc Kien Assembly Hall and Tan Ky Old House, renowned for its traditional architecture. You will also visit a silk workshop and the Sa Huynh Culture Museum.
The afternoon is free to enjoy the beach, wander through Hoi An’s colourful markets or spend some time shopping.
DAY 8: HOI AN - BA NA HILLS - GOLDEN BRIDGE - HOI AN
After breakfast, depart your hotel and travel towards Ba Na Hills. Upon arrival at the cable car station, begin your ascent and admire the spectacular scenery of Ba Na Mountain.
Explore Sun World Ba Na Hills, where you can discover a recreation of a medieval French village, landscaped gardens and historic wine cellars. Visit Linh Ung Pagoda, home to an impressive 27-metre-high Buddha statue.
Continue by cable car towards the summit of Ba Na Hills, enjoying spectacular panoramic views over Da Nang and the surrounding landscapes. The highlight of the visit is the famous Golden Bridge, one of Vietnam’s most recognisable modern landmarks.
DAY 9: HOI AN - DA NANG - HUE
After breakfast, transfer to Da Nang for a panoramic tour of the city. Visit Linh Ung Pagoda, offering beautiful views across Da Nang and the picturesque coastline of the Son Tra Peninsula.
Continue by road towards Hue, the former imperial capital of Vietnam, travelling through the spectacular Hai Van Pass, also known as the “Ocean Cloud Pass”, and passing the picturesque Lang Co Beach.
Upon arrival in Hue, visit the historic Thien Mu Pagoda before checking in at the 5* Pilgrimage Village Hue.
DAY 10: HUE
After breakfast, begin a full-day exploration of Hue with a visit to the UNESCO-listed Imperial Citadel. Continue through the city’s tranquil gardens and traditional buildings while discovering the fascinating history of Vietnam’s former imperial capital.
Visit the tomb of Emperor Minh Mang, a ruler of the Nguyen Dynasty. Explore the impressive complex, admiring its remarkable architecture and beautiful forest setting while learning more about this historic emperor.
Continue to the Tomb of Emperor Khai Dinh, an equally remarkable complex distinguished by its unique combination of traditional Vietnamese design and European architectural influences.
The tour continues with a visit to An Dinh Palace, built in 1917 and notable for its French-influenced architecture. Explore its elegant interiors and discover more about the lives of Vietnam’s former royal family.
Before returning to the hotel, enjoy some time browsing the colourful stalls of Dong Ba Market.
DAY 11: HUE - HO CHI MINH CITY
After breakfast, transfer to the airport for your flight to Ho Chi Minh City, formerly known as Saigon.
Upon arrival, transfer to the 5* Mai House Saigon Hotel and check in.
DAY 12: HO CHI MINH CITY - CU CHI TUNNELS - HO CHI MINH CITY
After breakfast, travel to the Cu Chi Tunnels, an extraordinary underground network used during the Vietnam War. Explore this fascinating historic site and learn about the tunnels’ role during the conflict before returning to Ho Chi Minh City.
In the afternoon, discover the highlights of Ho Chi Minh City, still affectionately known as Saigon by many locals. See the Reunification Palace from the outside and visit the historic Central Post Office, Nguyen Hue Street and City Hall.
Later, enjoy an authentic Vietnamese coffee, the perfect way to end a day of sightseeing in this vibrant city.
DAY 13: HO CHI MINH CITY - MEKONG DELTA - HO CHI MINH CITY
After breakfast, depart your hotel for the spectacular Mekong Delta, approximately two hours from the bustling streets of Ho Chi Minh City.
Upon arrival in Ben Tre, board a boat and journey through narrow canals surrounded by lush tropical vegetation into the heart of the delta. Here, life revolves around the river, offering a fascinating insight into a very different side of Vietnam.
Throughout the day, sample a variety of local products, including exotic fruits grown in the delta’s orchards and traditional coconut sweets handmade by local families.
Continue with a ride in a typical local vehicle to discover more of the surrounding countryside before boarding a traditional rowing boat. Glide peacefully through the narrow waterways and experience everyday life in the Mekong Delta from a unique perspective.
DAY 14: HO CHI MINH CITY
After breakfast, check out of your rooms and enjoy some time at leisure for personal sightseeing, shopping or simply relaxing before your journey home.
Later, transfer to the airport for your departure flight back to Malta.
DAY 15: MALTA
Arrive back in Malta with unforgettable memories of Vietnam’s rich culture, fascinating history, spectacular landscapes and warm hospitality.
All quoted prices are per person unless otherwise specifically indicated. Please note that all prices and packages quoted are subject to the ROCS Travel Terms and Conditions listed at ROCS Travel Terms and Conditions. All prices are in EUR and are subject to change without any prior notice. ROCS Travel reserves the right to discontinue any offer at any time without prior notice. Additional terms and conditions may apply.
ROCS package include:
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Return flights Malta-Hanoi-Ho Chi Minh-Malta
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One-way internal flight Hanoi-Hoi An
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One-way internal flight Hue-Ho Chi Minh
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10kg hand luggage & 23kg luggage in hold
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Airline taxes and fuel charges
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12 nights in 5* accommodations
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12 breakfasts
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1 lunch
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1 dinner
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All excursions as per itinerary
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All transfers
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Deluxe air-conditioned motor coach
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Comprehensive guided sightseeing
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Active itinerary with unique cultural features
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Services of an experienced ROCS Travel Tour Manager
OBLIGATORY EXCURSIONS
Please be advised that excursions and/or extras, listed in our itineraries are obligatory for all participants. These excursions/extras have been carefully selected to enhance the travel experience on our guided holidays and ensure a comprehensive exploration of the destination.
The details and costs for these obligatory extras are clearly displayed in our brochure and website. Therefore, such costs need to be added to the main package price. We thank you in advance and look forward to welcoming you on a journey filled with discovery, exploration, and unforgettable experiences.