Essence of Vietnam, 5 Days 4 Nights

Upon arrival at Da Nang International Airport (via Hanoi or Ho Chi Minh City), you will be welcomed by our representative and transferred to your hotel. Standard check-in time is 14:00 hours; early check-in is subject to availability.

Later, proceed to Ba Na Hills, a spectacular hill station located at an altitude of 1,487 meters above sea level. The journey begins with a scenic cable car ride that holds multiple world records and offers panoramic views of lush forests, waterfalls, and rolling mountains.

At Ba Na Hills, you will explore:

• The iconic Golden Bridge, dramatically supported by two giant stone hands, offering breathtaking mountain views and one of Vietnam’s most photographed landmarks

• The French Village, designed in classic European architectural style with cobblestone streets, churches, and charming squares

• Linh Ung Pagoda and the large Buddha statue overlooking the mountains

• Le Jardin D’Amour flower gardens

• Fantasy Park, an indoor entertainment complex with games and attractions suitable for all ages

The Wax Museum entrance fee is not included.

After completing the tour, return to Da Nang for an overnight stay.

After breakfast at the hotel, enjoy a relaxed morning at leisure.

In the afternoon, depart for a guided excursion to the Coconut Forest and Hoi An. Begin with a visit to the Bay Mau Coconut Forest, where you can experience a traditional basket boat ride through narrow waterways lined with water coconut palms (basket boat ticket payable directly).

Continue onward to Hoi An Ancient Town, a UNESCO-listed heritage site known for its remarkably preserved architecture and multicultural trading history.

During your walking tour, you will visit:

• The historic Japanese Covered Bridge, dating back to the 16th century

• Traditional merchant houses reflecting Chinese, Japanese, and Vietnamese influences

• Chinese Assembly Halls with ornate carvings and temples

• Riverside promenades along the Thu Bon River

• Local markets and lantern-lit streets that glow beautifully in the evening

Hoi An is especially enchanting after sunset when thousands of lanterns illuminate the town, creating a romantic and vibrant atmosphere.

Return to Da Nang for overnight stay.

After breakfast, transfer to Da Nang Airport for your flight to Hanoi. Upon arrival at Noi Bai International Airport, proceed directly for a guided city tour before hotel check-in.

Hanoi, the capital of Vietnam, is a city where centuries-old traditions coexist with French colonial architecture and modern urban life.

Your sightseeing tour includes:

• Temple of Literature, Vietnam’s first university, built in 1070 and dedicated to Confucius. The temple complex features peaceful courtyards, ancient stone stelae, and traditional Vietnamese architecture

• Hoan Kiem Lake, a scenic freshwater lake in the heart of the city associated with local legends. Visit Ngoc Son Temple located on a small island connected by a red wooden bridge

• Ly Thai To Statue, honoring the emperor who founded Hanoi

• Ho Chi Minh Mausoleum, an important national monument where the preserved body of President Ho Chi Minh is housed (external visit if closed)

• One Pillar Pagoda, a unique wooden pagoda built on a single stone pillar symbolizing purity

• Ba Dinh Square, a historic site where Vietnam’s independence was declared

After the approximately three-hour tour, transfer to your hotel for check-in and overnight stay in Hanoi.

After breakfast, depart at around 08:30 AM for Ninh Binh, located approximately 2 to 2.5 hours from Hanoi. Often referred to as “Halong Bay on land,” Ninh Binh is famous for its dramatic limestone karst landscapes, winding rivers, and historic sites.

Your excursion includes:

• A visit to Hoa Lu Ancient Capital, the former capital of Vietnam during the Dinh and Le dynasties. Explore ancient temples dedicated to Vietnamese kings and learn about the country’s early history

• A two-hour boat ride through Tam Coc or Trang An, where local rowers gently navigate narrow rivers passing through limestone caves and beneath towering cliffs

• Scenic countryside views featuring lush rice paddies, rural villages, and serene waterways

The boat journey offers a peaceful and immersive experience amidst some of Vietnam’s most picturesque natural landscapes.

Return to Hanoi by early evening and overnight stay.

After breakfast at the hotel, enjoy free time until check-out. Depending on your flight schedule, you may explore nearby areas or relax at the hotel.

At the designated time, transfer to Noi Bai International Airport for your onward departure.

This five-day journey offers a comprehensive introduction to Vietnam’s cultural richness, natural beauty, and historic landmarks, combining the coastal charm of Da Nang with the heritage and countryside experiences of northern Vietnam.