8-Day Vietnam Tour – Discover Vietnam’s Most Iconic Highlights
Overview
Trip Highlights
8 Day Best of Vietnam Tour – Explore Top Tourist Places from the North to the South
Have a short vacation but eager to explore Vietnam’s top attractions? Our 8-day Vietnam tour is your ideal escape, designed to showcase the country’s must-see destinations. Begin with the charm of Hanoi, dive into the lively atmosphere of Ho Chi Minh City, and relax on a scenic cruise through Halong Bay—one of the world’s New Natural Wonders. Discover the beauty of Ba Na Hills and the iconic Golden Bridge, immerse yourself in the Mekong Delta’s lush scenery and vibrant river life, and experience the unique fusion of Vietnamese, Japanese, and Chinese cultures in Hoi An. Along the way, you’ll be immersed in Vietnam’s stunning landscapes, rich culture, and captivating history, while meeting the friendly and hospitable locals.

Hoi An ancient town
Special Highlights – 8 day Vietnam Travel Itinerary
- Explore the bustling charm of Vietnam’s two largest cities—elegant Hanoi and vibrant Ho Chi Minh City—both epitomizing the country’s rapid growth.
- Relax on a leisurely cruise through Halong Bay, marveling at the breathtaking karst landscapes and awe-inspiring grottoes that define this UNESCO World Heritage Site.
- Enjoy the tranquility and stunning architecture of Hoi An, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, known for its well-preserved cultural heritage.
- Take in the stunning Golden Bridge and relish the pleasant climate of Ba Na Hills, often likened to Sapa for its scenic beauty in central Vietnam.
- Visit key historical sites including the Ho Chi Minh Complex, Saigon’s historic landmarks, and the intriguing Cu Chi Tunnels, gaining deep insights into Vietnam’s past.
- Dive into the lush landscapes and unique river life of southern Vietnam, experiencing the serene beauty and cultural richness of the Mekong Delta.
- Get a comprehensive view of local cultures, Vietnam’s rich history, and daily life, and appreciate the distinct characteristics of the north, central, and south regions.
Itinerary
Today you’ll land in Hanoi, our driver will hold your signed name board : Mr/Ms…………………..., following your flight number ………..., and its landed time …….... at Noi Bai international airport, he picks you up and transfer to Hanoi city, a city of lakes, shaded boulevards, public parks, and the capital of Vietnam.
Check into your hotel (check-in is available after 2:00 PM) & be free at your relaxation.
If your arrival during the morning or noon time, you can get on an exciting tour to explore Hanoi’s highlights :

- Ho Chi Minh Complex: Explore the Presidential Palace, a fine example of French architecture, and Ho Chi Minh House on stilts. This house offers a glimpse into the simple life of Ho Chi Minh, a revered figure in Vietnamese history. Conclude your visit here with the One Pillar Pagoda, renowned for its unique architecture and cultural significance.
- Tran Quoc Pagoda: Visit the oldest pagoda in Hanoi and a key center of Buddhism in the capital
- A leisurely walk through Hanoi’s Old Quarter, known for its 36 ancient streets, and around the picturesque Hoan Kiem Lake, the heart of the city. As you stroll, you’ll experience the bustling energy of Hanoi, with its thousands of motorbikes, learn to navigate its busy streets, explore local shops, and perhaps even engage with local students practicing their English.
- Next, you’ll visit Hanoi’s famous Train Street, where you can unwind at a charming café. Enjoy a cup of the renowned egg coffee or another drink (at your own expense) while watching the trains pass by—a perfect spot for memorable photos and soaking in Hanoi’s unique, relaxed vibe.

End your first day with a comfortable stay at a cozy hotel in the capital.
Inclusions : AC car transfer with driver for the airport pick-up & day tour, tourguide of English speaking for the city tour, entrance sightseeing fees of mentioned visiting places, meals (L- lunch), double/twin shared room in 3* Minasi Premium Hotel or similar
Morning Activities:
Depart from Hanoi city on limousine shuttle bus pick-up at 8:00- 8:30 AM from Hanoi Old Quarter to Halong city or choose a private car for only you to leave Hanoi to Halong City – pick-up at 8:45 AM. (if you travel on shuttle bus you will travel on car 3.5 hours, and when you choose private car the driver will transfer you on highway and spend only 2.5 hours on car)
Arrive in Bai Chay harbor around noon time
Afternoon Activities:
11: 30 Arrive at La Regina Royal waiting lounge – Bai Chay habour – Ha Long, enjoy welcome drink and express check-in before boarding.
12:30 Check in aboard with Welcome drink from crew member while manager introduce the safety briefing and the boat cruising toward to the Halong bay.
13:00 Let your vacation start with a delicious lunch set menu in restaurant.
15:00 Your first excursion is a visit to Luon Cave. This is considered as one of the most ideal places in Halong for kayaking or rowing boat. After that, you will visit Titov Island, where you can go swimming or hike to the top for stunning, panoramic view of the Bay.

17:00 Come back the cruise for relaxing.
19:00 Enjoy our special dinner in the restaurant
Evening Activities:
After dinner, it’s your choice for a fun squid fishing, spa, karaoke or relaxing. Overnight in 4* La Regina Royal Cruise Halong bay
Inclusions : AC car transfer with driver Hanoi- Halong bay, tourguide of English speaking on cruise, sight-seeing entrance fees, meals (B-breakfast, L-lunch, D- dinner), kayak/ rowing boat ride in Luon cave, double/twin-shared cabin on 4* La Regina Royal Cruise or Similar
Morning Activities:
06:30 Early morning sun risers can enjoy fantastic view on sundeck.
06:30 Light breakfast is served at the restaurant.
07:30 After the breakfast, Your next excursion is a visit to the magnificent Sung Sot Cave, where you can take in the panoramic views across Halong Bay.

09:00 Check out of the cabin. Vietnamese cuisine buffet is served at the restaurant while the boat heads back to the harbor.
11:00 Disembark at the harbor.
Afternoon Activities:
The driver welcomes you at Bai Chay harbor and transfers you back Hanoi city, then proceed to Hanoi airport for your Vietnam Airlines flight to Da Nang city
Arrival in Da Nang International Airport : Our driver will be waiting with a sign bearing your name at the arrival terminal. He will pick you up and transfer you to your hotel.
Check-in at the hotel & enjoy the rest of your day at your leisure.
Inclusions : AC car transfer with driver Halong – Hanoi & airport transfers, tourguide of English speaking on cruise, sight-seeing entrance fees, meals (B-breakfast, L-lunch), double/twin-shared room 3* Sunny Ocean Hotel or Similar
Today, you’ll have the morning free to relax, with an exciting afternoon ahead for a basket boat ride through the forest jungle and an evening exploration of Hoi An Ancient Town.
At around 3 P.M., our guide and driver will meet your family in the hotel lobby and take you to Cam Thanh Coconut Village, a unique eco-region featuring a beautiful mangrove forest. This area is home to a variety of wildlife, including crabs, shrimp, fish, and even soft-bodied creatures.
Here, you’ll experience a basket boat ride through the coconut forest, getting a glimpse into the daily lives of Vietnamese fishermen, their families, and their communities. You’ll feel the thrill of floating on the water and can even participate in a fun-filled basket boat race, complete with lively music and cheering.

During the boat ride, you’ll also have the chance to watch local fishermen perform round net or cast net techniques. If you’re interested in rowing the boat yourself, the boat rowers will teach you how to paddle the unique Vietnamese bamboo basket boat.
Afterward, your guide and driver will take you to Hoi An Ancient Town, a city that was a thriving seaport from the 16th to 18th centuries and is now a must-see destination in Southeast Asia. As you stroll through the town, you’ll visit several key sites, including Hoi An Museum, the town’s famous Ancient Houses with their remarkable architecture, Chinese-influenced Assembly Halls, the Art Craft Manufacturing Workshop, and the iconic Japanese Covered Bridge. These landmarks represent the diverse architectural styles of Hoi An, reflecting the cultural influences of France, Japan, China, and Vietnam. Despite enduring centuries of weathering, Hoi An has preserved its ancient and serene beauty.
Dinner will be served with Vietnamese dishes in a local restaurant
You’ll have some free time to shop and explore Hoi An Ancient Town at night before being transferred back to your hotel in Da Nang for a relaxing evening.
Inclusions : AC car transportation with driver, local tourguide of English speaking in Da Nang, meals (B-breakfast, D-dinner), entrance sightseeing fees of mentioned visiting places, bastket boat ride in Cam Thanh village, twin/double-shared room in 3* Sunny Ocean Hotel Da Nang or similar
07:30-08:00 Our guide and driver will pick you up from your hotel ( please, be ready at that time frame), depart for Ba Na Hills through one of the most beautiful seaside streets of Central Vietnam.
09:00 Arrive in Ba Na, you will have a chance to experience the cable system up to the top of the hill and enjoy the beautiful sight of Mo stream, Toc Tien waterfall.
Sightseeing on Ba Na Hill to:
- Hand of the gods hold Vietnam’s Golden Bridge.
- L’Jardin Zone with French Architecture Building: Tinh Tâm Garden, French Stable, one hundred year-old pomelo tree, Old Villas.
- Linh Ung Pagoda, 27 meters Buddha Statue, Loc Uyen Garden.

11:30 From Debay station, you will get on the second cable system to move to Nui Chua Peak – the rooftop of Da nang City. Enjoy lunch at a local restaurant.
Continue the tour with Fantasy Park – one of the most modern indoor game centers of the Asia.
Visit Linh Chua Linh Tu temple, enjoy a panoramic view of the whole Da Nang city and Da Nang bay through the mist in a romantic afternoon on Ba Na peak.

16:30 – 17:00 Go down by the cable system. Get on coach and return the city center.
18:00 – 18:30 Drop off at your hotel.
Overnight in the hotel
Inclusions : AC car transfer for the day tour, tourguide of English speaking in Da Nang, entrance sightseeing fees of mentioned visiting places, meals (B-breakfast, L-lunch), returned cable car tickets for Ba Na hills, twin/double rooms in 4* Sunny Ocean Hotel or similar
Approximately three hours before your flight, the driver will pick up your group from the hotel and transfer you to Da Nang airport for your morning flight from Da Nang City to Ho Chi Minh City.
Upon arrival at Ho Chi Minh City airport, our guide and driver will warmly welcome your group, holding a sign with your name: …………..… They will pick you up at the airport and take you on a journey to visit Cu Chi Tunnels, an extensive underground network built by Vietnamese fighters during the struggle for independence. This underground city, which took about 25 years to construct, features living quarters, kitchens, hospitals, weapon factories, storage facilities, and a command center. The tunnel system provided the Viet Cong with a strategic advantage, allowing them to move undetected by American forces, and served as a home for approximately 10,000 people who lived underground for several years.

Before entering the tunnels, you’ll watch a brief introductory video detailing how they were constructed. You’ll then spend the next hour exploring this intricate maze. Additionally, you’ll see various mantraps, the remains of an American tank, and numerous bomb craters created by 500-pound bombs dropped by B-52 bombers.
After the tour, we’ll return to Ho Chi Minh City, where you’ll check into the hotel and have the remainder of the day free for relaxation.
Inclusions : AC car transportation with driver for airport transfers & day tour, local tourguide of English speaking in HCM city, meals (B-breakfast, L-lunch), entrance sightseeing fees of mentioned visiting places, twin/double-shared room in 3* Silverland Sil Hotel HCMC or similar
7:30-7:45: Our tour guide and car will pick up your family, then we’ll depart for My Tho, a town situated on the left bank of the Mekong River. Upon arrival, we’ll visit Vinh Trang Pagoda, which dates back to the late 19th century. Afterward, we’ll board a sampan and cruise down the river, passing by the four beautiful islands known as Dragon, Unicorn, Phoenix, and Tortoise.
We’ll stop at Unicorn Island, where you can stroll along the country lanes, explore orchards, and savor tropical fruits while enjoying traditional folk music performed by locals. You’ll also have the chance to visit a fruit plantation.

Boat ride in Mekong delta
Next, we’ll ride a hand-rowed sampan through Thoi Son canal, soaking in the serene countryside scenery. We’ll visit a local family business, tour a honey-bee farm, enjoy honey tea, and explore a coconut candy workshop.
Lunch will be served at a local restaurant.
In the afternoon, you’ll have the opportunity to cycle around Tan Thach village, where you can meet local villagers and experience the daily life of the Mekong Delta. For those who prefer not to cycle, you can relax in a hammock and enjoy the cool breeze.
17:30: We’ll return to Ho Chi Minh City and drop you off at your hotel.
Inclusions : AC car transportation with driver, local tourguide of English speaking in HCM city, meals (B-breakfast, L-lunch), entrance sightseeing fees of mentioned visiting places, boat ride in Mekong Delta, twin/double-shared room in 3* Silverland Sil Hotel HCMC or similar
07:30 – 07:45 AM: Your tour guide will pick your family up for on a morning tour to visit the Independence Palace, also known as the Reunification Palace, which was built on the site of the former Norodom Palace. The Independence Palace is a prominent landmark in Ho Chi Minh City, designed by architect Ngô Viết Thụ.

Next, you will explore beautiful French colonial structures, including Notre Dame Cathedral and the historic Central Post Office. The tour will also take you to the War Remnants Museum, where you’ll find an extensive display of artifacts from both Indochina wars.
12:00 PM: The tour concludes, and you will get our driver picked up & transferred to Tan Son Nhat Airport for your afternoon flight onward.Good bye & see you in the next time!
Inclusions : AC car transportation with driver for the tour & airport transfer, local tourguide of English speaking in HCM city, meals (B-breakfast), entrance sightseeing fees of mentioned visiting places
The Trip’s Inclusions :
- All accommodations ( twin/double shared room on basis) with daily breakfast
- Transfers and land tranportation during the trip with driver.
- Domestic flights in Vietnam ( Hanoi- Da Nang & Da Nang -HCM city)
- Local English speaking guide in day trips as detailed in each day’s itinerary
- Meals as stated in the travel itinerary (B- breakfast, L – lunch, D – dinner)
- All entrance fees and boat fees of mentioned visiting places
The Trip’s Exclusions :
- Drinks
- Tips to tourguide & driver
- Visa to enter Vietnam
- International flight tickets
- Travel Insurance
- Personal expences & services not stated in the program……
Frequently Asked Questions
This curated itinerary covers the three distinct regions of Vietnam. You will explore the historic charm of Hanoi, experience a 5-star cruise in Halong Bay, visit the imperial monuments of Hue, walk the lantern-lit streets of Hoi An, and conclude with the vibrant energy of Ho Chi Minh City and the Mekong Delta. It is the most efficient way to see the “S-shaped land’s” top-rated UNESCO sites in just over a week.
Absolutely. This tour is specifically designed as an all-in-one introductory package. It balances cultural sightseeing and historical exploration with relaxation (such as the Halong Bay cruise). Golden Holiday Travel handles all domestic logistics—including flights, private transfers, and English-speaking guides—making it a stress-free experience for those who have never visited Vietnam before.
Yes, our 8-day Vietnam Highlights package is a “hassle-free” tour. We include the domestic flights from Hanoi to Hue and Da Nang to Ho Chi Minh City. By booking these as part of the package, travelers benefit from our local operator rates and seamless airport transfers, ensuring you don’t waste precious holiday time on logistics.
Yes. As a licensed local tour operator, Golden Holiday Travel specializes in tailor-made experiences. If you wish to add an extra day for trekking in Sapa or want more leisure time on the beaches of Hoi An, our travel experts can adjust the pace and activities. We can also upgrade your accommodations to 4-star or 5-star luxury boutique hotels upon request.
This tour goes beyond basic sightseeing. You will experience a private boat trip in the Mekong Delta, a traditional cooking demonstration or craft visit in Hoi An, and a deep dive into Vietnam’s wartime history at the Cu Chi Tunnels. We focus on “authentic immersion,” ensuring you meet local artisans and enjoy regional specialties like Pho in the North and Banh Xeo in the South.
Booking with a Hanoi-based licensed operator means you have 24/7 local support throughout your journey. We hand-pick our guides and drivers to ensure safety and high service standards. Unlike international platforms, we operate directly at the source, which allows us to offer competitive local pricing and “hidden gem” stops that larger tour groups often overlook.
Good to Know
Before travelling to Vietnam, please ensure that your passport is valid for at least 6 months from your arrival date and has at least two blank pages for immigration stamps and visa purposes.
Citizens from several countries, including France, Japan, South Korea, the United Kingdom, Germany, Italy, and Spain, can currently enter Vietnam visa-free for stays of up to 45 days. Visa policies may change from time to time depending on nationality and travel regulations.
If you intend to stay longer than the visa exemption period, or if your nationality is not included in the visa-free list, you can apply for an e-visa online.You are also welcome to contact our team for updated visa information and travel assistance before your trip to Vietnam.
Travel insurance is not included in our tour package; however, valid travel insurance is mandatory for all participants joining the tour. Your policy should provide adequate coverage for:
- Emergency medical treatment, hospitalization, and repatriation
- Trip cancellation, delays, or interruptions
- All activities included in your itinerary, including outdoor and adventure excursions
We also recommend checking whether your credit card offers travel insurance coverage and purchasing additional protection if needed to ensure comprehensive coverage throughout your journey.
The official currency in Vietnam is the Vietnamese Dong (VND). While some hotels and tourist-oriented businesses may accept US dollars or euros, payments are generally preferred in local currency.
Visa and MasterCard are commonly accepted at most hotels, restaurants, shopping centers, and larger establishments, especially in major cities and tourist destinations. However, cash is still widely used for local markets, small shops, and rural areas.
ATMs are easy to find throughout Vietnam, particularly in cities and popular travel destinations. Currency exchange services are available at international airports, banks, hotels, and licensed exchange counters.
Also, please make sure your banknotes are clean and undamaged, as torn, heavily worn, or marked foreign bills may not be accepted for exchange or payment in Vietnam.
Vietnam is a year-round destination, offering diverse weather patterns across its different regions. In general, spring (February to April) and autumn (September to December) are considered the most comfortable times to visit, thanks to pleasant temperatures, lower humidity, and less rainfall.
As Vietnam stretches over 1,600 km from north to south, the climate can vary greatly depending on where you travel:
- Northern Vietnam: Experiences four distinct seasons, with cool and sometimes chilly winters (December to February) and hot, humid summers (May to August).
- Central Vietnam: Usually enjoys warm weather, though the rainy season typically occurs between September and November.
- Southern Vietnam: Has a tropical climate with warm temperatures throughout the year, alongside occasional tropical showers during the rainy season from May to October.
We recommend packing light, comfortable clothing as well as seasonal items suited to the regions included in your itinerary.
International flights are not included in our tour prices, giving you the flexibility to choose the airline and flight schedule that best suit your travel plans and budget. If needed, our travel consultants are happy to assist you in finding the most convenient and competitive flight options.
For international departures, we highly recommend arriving at the airport at least 3 hours before your flight to allow enough time for check-in, immigration procedures, and any unexpected delays or issues that may arise.
If your itinerary includes domestic flights within Vietnam, all flight schedules, airline information, and booking details will be included in your final travel documents before departure.
For a smooth journey, we recommend arriving at the airport at least 2 hours prior to your flight. Please make sure to carry your passport along with your e-ticket or booking reference.
Baggage Allowance: Checked baggage allowance typically ranges from 20kg to 23kg depending on the airline and ticket class, while cabin baggage is generally limited to 7kg per passenger.
Important Notice: Extra baggage fees may apply for your overweight or oversized luggage. We strongly recommend reviewing the baggage policies of your airline in advance, such as Vietnam Airlines, VietJet Air, or Bamboo Airways.
Please note that domestic flight schedules may occasionally change due to airline operations or weather conditions. Should there be any updates, our team will inform you as soon as possible.
If your journey includes a connecting domestic flight within Vietnam, please keep the following information in mind upon arrival:
- Collect your checked luggage after landing.
- Complete immigration and customs procedures.
- Proceed to the domestic terminal for your onward flight. At some airports, this may involve a short walk or shuttle transfer between terminals.
- Airport staff are usually available to assist passengers, so feel free to ask for directions or support if needed.
Recommended connection time: at least 2 hours 30 minutes
This allows enough time for immigration clearance, baggage collection, customs procedures, terminal transfers, and possible flight delays.
Practical Tip: At major airports such as Noi Bai International Airport and Tan Son Nhat International Airport, international and domestic terminals may be located in separate buildings. Please follow airport signage carefully and allow sufficient transfer time.

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8-Day Vietnam Tour – Discover Vietnam’s Most Iconic Highlights