Vietnam Express Southbound (10 days)

Day 1: Hanoi

Kick off your Vietnam Express Southbound adventure with an important welcome meeting at 6 PM. Look for a notification in the hotel lobby or ask reception for the precise meeting spot. For a hassle-free start, please have your travel insurance information and emergency contact details ready, as we’ll gather these for your well-being and ease. This introductory session is key to a smooth Vietnam Express Southbound trip, offering vital details and preparing you for an incredible journey ahead.

Arriving early in Hanoi offers a fantastic opportunity to explore the capital before your Vietnam Express Southbound journey truly begins. Consider joining a guided Hanoi highlights tour led by a local expert, where you’ll discover the historic Temple of Literature, enjoy traditional tea, and reflect at the Hoa Lo Prison museum, culminating at the picturesque Hoan Kiem Lake. Alternatively, feel free to explore Hanoi independently, wandering through the lively Old Quarter, admiring the French colonial architecture, relaxing in peaceful parks, and savoring the city’s renowned street food.

Day 2: Halong Bay

Experience the breathtaking beauty of Halong Bay, a UNESCO World Heritage site, on a smooth Vietnam Express Southbound trip via a comfortable private minibus (around a 4-hour ride). Witness the bay’s legendary scenery: thousands of limestone karsts, secret caves, and peaceful sandy shores, shaped by time and nature. Glide through the emerald waters on a private Halong Bay cruise, venturing into captivating island grottoes and, if the weather allows, taking a revitalizing swim at Ti Top Island Beach. Your day culminates in a serene overnight stay on your boat, beneath the magical stars of Halong Bay. This Vietnam Express Southbound adventure delivers an unforgettable encounter with Vietnam’s natural marvel.

Your wooden junk-style boat has twin share cabins with air-conditioning and private facilities. There’s also a dining room and bar to enjoy lunch, dinner and breakfast.

Day 3: Hanoi – Overnight train

Your Ha Long Bay exploration culminates in a picturesque boat ride back to Ha Long, after which a convenient bus will transport you to Hanoi, with an anticipated late afternoon arrival. You’ll then have leisure time to discover Hanoi’s attractions, indulge in some shopping, or simply unwind before commencing your overnight rail journey southward to Hue on the Vietnam Express Southbound. This efficient travel arrangement ensures you make the most of your Vietnamese adventure.

Day 4: Hue

Arrive into Hue at approximately 11 AM and transfer to the hotel.

Experience the historical grandeur of Hue, Vietnam’s former imperial capital, and delve into its royal heritage on your Vietnam Express Southbound journey. Enjoy a relaxed morning, perhaps venturing to the bustling Dong Ba Market to savor authentic Hue delicacies like the royal rice cake, banh khoai. Later, join a guided tour of the impressive Hue Imperial Citadel, a sprawling complex bearing the marks of war but still showcasing temples, state buildings, and the former emperor’s residence, providing a captivating look at Vietnam’s imperial past – a key highlight of any Hue visit.

Day 5: Hue

Experience the imperial city of Hue like a local on a genuine motorbike tour, a Vietnam Express Southbound adventure through its historical gems. With an expert guide, you’ll uncover the remains of the once-forbidden Purple City and witness the serene yet significant Thien Mu Pagoda, a centuries-old Buddhist haven. Gain a deeper understanding of the Vietnam War’s impact as you see the poignant vehicle associated with the self-immolating monk, a powerful symbol of past religious strife. This Hue exploration offers a unique and immersive glimpse into Vietnam’s rich imperial heritage.

Enjoy a short boat cruise down the Perfume River before eating lunch inside a nunnery. Finally, visit the lakeside royal tomb of Emperor Tu Duc before heading back to Hue.

Day 6: Hoi An

Embark on your Vietnam Express Southbound journey this morning with a scenic bus ride through coastal rice fields and over the breathtaking Hai Van Pass. Following a short stop at Lang Co Beach, you’ll arrive in the UNESCO World Heritage city of Hoi An. Once a significant international trading port in the 17th to 19th centuries, much of Hoi An’s beautifully conserved Old Town still evokes a sense of bygone eras. Renowned as a shopper’s paradise, particularly for its numerous tailors, your tour leader will guide you on an introductory walk through the Old Town, showcasing key attractions. You’ll also receive a sightseeing pass to independently explore other notable sites at your own pace.

Day 7: Hoi An

Today is yours to discover Hoi An at your own pace on this Vietnam Express Southbound leg. Wander through the charming ancient town’s art galleries and along its cobblestone lanes, or rent a bicycle and pedal through the surrounding rice fields towards Cua Dai Beach. Immerse yourself in the vibrant markets and preserved Chinese merchant houses, browsing for paintings, ceramics, and the iconic colorful cloth lanterns. Consider commissioning a unique piece from one of the city’s countless skilled tailors. Don’t miss the opportunity to savor Hoi An’s renowned regional cuisine with a delightful meal at a riverside eatery or by participating in a local cooking class.

Day 8: Ho Chi Minh city

Your Vietnam Express Southbound adventure continues with a brief early morning flight to Ho Chi Minh City, formerly Saigon, a city steeped in captivating history and considered Vietnam’s vibrant hub for commerce and culture. Upon arrival, you’ll embark on a city sightseeing bus tour, passing iconic landmarks such as the Reunification Palace, Notre Dame Cathedral, and the Opera House. A significant stop will be the War Remnants Museum, offering poignant insights into the Vietnam/American War.

Day 9: Mekong Delta/ Ho Chi Minh city

This morning, your Vietnam Express Southbound adventure includes a captivating day trip to the Mekong Delta. You’ll board a boat to Ben Tre to wander through lush coconut gardens, pausing at a local residence to taste fresh tropical fruits and sweet coconut jams. Following this, glide along the Mekong in traditional sampans, passing beneath the shade of water coconut trees. A tuk-tuk ride will then immerse you in the local villages, offering insights into rural life and the fascinating process of crafting coconut products like brooms and fiber mats. Enjoy a delicious lunch at a delta-heart restaurant, savoring regional delicacies such as the iconic Elephant Ear fish. Your journey continues with a cruise along the Mekong’s main waterways back to the Ben Tre boat pier, followed by a comfortable bus transfer back to Ho Chi Minh City.

Enjoy a final group dinner at KOTO restaurant, an organisation dedicated to developing the hospitality careers of street kids.

Day 10: Ho Chi Minh city

Your Vietnam Express Southbound trip ends after breakfast today. There are no activities included and you’re free to depart your accommodation at any time. For those who are staying on and want to explore Ho Chi Minh City further, check out our Urban Adventure day trips.