Saigon & Hanoi

A classic combination of two of the most iconic cities in Vietnam, you’ll notice a difference in people, customs and traditions between the north and south and this is what makes the country so fascinating. 

Highlights

• Saigon sightseeing
• Water puppet show
• Cu Chi tunnels
• Hanoi’s old city
• French colonial architecture
• History & culture 

 
Day 1 - Arrive into Saigon and meet your guide before travelling to your city centre hotel where you spend 2 nights. The rest of the day is yours to explore as you please. The city of Saigon or Ho Chi Minh City to use its official name, is the most western of all Vietnamese cities and is still called by its original name by visitors and locals alike.

Day 2 - Following breakfast head out for a half day tour taking in the former Presidential Palace which is now a museum and see a performance of Water Puppetry which is a traditional Vietnamese entertainment .  You’ll also visit the impressive Notre Dame Cathedral before lunch in a local restaurant.

In the afternoon travel out of the city centre to visit the Cu Chi tunnels, a vast underground network built first as a defence against the French and later expanded during the Vietnam War. You’ll return to Saigon in the early evening for dinner under your own arrangements.

 
Day 3 - Travel to the airport for you flight to Hanoi in the north of the country. The city is often described as the Paris of Asia due to its French influenced architecture. After arrival you travel to the Ho Chi Minh complex where the former leader of the country lies in state, you’ll also get to see his former home and the Governor’s Residence. 

After lunch visit the old city for a walking tour and take in the Hoan Kiem Lake and Temple of Literature. Your evening is at leisure to try one of the many excellent restaurants in the city.

Day 4 - Explore the countryside around Hanoi today, the north of Vietnam is home to the country’s most revered pagodas and temples. Take in the Thay Pagoda famous for its finely carved statues. You return to Hanoi in the afternoon and have time to explore on your own. You may like to re visit the old city, it’s just the place to pick up a holiday souvenir.

Day 5 - Travel to the airport for your onward flight.
 

5 day Saigon & Hanoi tour from £365
Departs daily. Tour price includes en suite accommodation with breakfast and 2 lunches but excludes flights.