11 Day Culture and Beach Tour of Vietnam

Highlights of the Trip 

Located in Southeast Asia, this beautiful country has the perfect mix of attractions, from serene beaches to beautiful pagodas to bustling cities. To get the best of Vietnam, we’ve crafted an 11 day culture and beach holiday package for you.

On the tour you will see the best of Ho Chi Minh City and see popular sites like Cu Chi Tunnels and the holy Cao Dai Temple, along with Cai Rang floating market, the Mekong Delta River and Can Tho. From day 6 onwards you will explore the many beaches and lush waters of Con Dao Island with so many water-based activities.

Vietnam has something for everyone and with this 11 day culture and beach holiday package you will experience the best that this country has to offer. So, what are you waiting for? Plan your trip now and get ready for an unforgettable tour that you’ll cherish for a lifetime.

Destinations and the Landmarks / Sights to Visit 

Ho Chi Minh City

• Jade Emperor Pagoda: A major Taoist temple located in Ho Chi Minh City, Vietnam. Constructed in 1909 by the Cantonese community.
• Reunification Palace: This magnificent palace has played a crucial role in the country’s history and continues to stand as a symbol of Vietnam’s efforts towards independence and reunification.
• Notre Dame Cathedral: Built in the late 19th century by the French colonizers, the cathedral stands proudly in the heart of the city.
• War Remnants Museum: A sombre and eye-opening display of the devastating effects of war.

Can Tho

• Ninh Kieu Quay: The quay is situated on the banks of the Hau River, one of the most important tributaries of the Mekong River.
• Thoi Son Island: This beautiful island, also known as Unicorn Island, is a true hidden gem that offers a truly unique and authentic Vietnamese experience.

Con Dao

• Hang Duong Cemetery: Built by the communists during the Vietnam War, this cemetery serves as a final resting place for thousands of soldiers who gave their lives in the fight against American and South Vietnamese forces.
• Con Dao Museum: A treasure trove of information and artifacts that showcase the rich and diverse Vietnamese culture.

Cultural Experiences & Activities of this Holiday

Ben Thanh Market: The market is a maze of narrow alleyways and stalls, selling a variety of goods ranging from fresh produce to souvenirs, clothing, and handicrafts.

Floating Markets: Explore the floating markets of Vinh Long. Known as the ‘rice bowls of the Mekong Delta’.

Cu Chi Tunnels: This immense network of tunnels, stretching over 120 kilometers, played a significant role in the Vietnam War.

Local Cuisine and Traditional Dishes to try while in Vietnam

During this tour, numerous opportunities will arise for you to savour the authentic local cuisine, whether from the menus of included meals or from your own culinary exploration during your free time in the itinerary. Indulge in traditional dishes that showcase the rich flavours of the region, including pho, a flavourful broth made with beef or chicken, herbs, and rice noodles. Vietnam is also known for its street food culture, with small food stalls and vendors lining the streets offering a wide array of dishes. This is a true reflection of the country’s vibrant and bustling atmosphere, with the smells and sounds of sizzling meats and steaming noodles filling the air. From simple yet delicious dishes like banh mi to more adventurous options like balut (a boiled duck embryo), street food in Vietnam is a must-try for any food lover.

Water-based Activities and Cruises

Swimming at Con Dao and relaxation. Try diving, snorkelling, trekking to the Bay Canh Islet or even visit the Turtle Conservation Centre.

Accommodation of this Tour

Ho Chi Minh City: Sanouva Saigon Hotel.

Can Tho: Kim Tho Hotel.

Con Dao: Saigon Con Dao Resort.

Itinerary

Day 1: Ho Chi Minh City Arrival

Welcome to the hustle and bustle of Vietnam’s largest city, formerly known as Saigon. After arrival, check into your hotel and spend the rest of the day exploring the sights and sounds of this vibrant city. Our tour guides will make sure you enjoy a comfortable orientation tour of this metropolitan city.

Day 2: Ho Chi Minh City Orientation

Start your day with a visit to the famous Jade Emperor Pagoda followed by the Reunification Palace. Explore the city’s French colonial heritage at the Notre Dame Cathedral and the Central Post Office. Tour the War Remnants Museum and take a peek at the history of Vietnam. Of course, you can’t leave without a visit to the Ben Thanh market to find souvenirs for your friends and family.

✓ Breakfast and Lunch

Day 3: Ho Chi Minh City/Vinh Long/Can Tho

Embark on the three hour journey from Ho Chi Minh City to Vinh Long. Once there, explore the beautiful floating markets, popularly known as the ‘rice bowls of the Mekong Delta”. Afterward, proceed to the lively city of Can Tho, where you will be paying a visit to the lively Ninh Kieu quay and the bustling Cai Rang floating market.

✓ Breakfast and Lunch

Day 4: Can Tho/Ho Chi Minh City

Today you will be heading back to Ho Chi Minh City with a stop at Thoi Son Island, where you can savour the sights of lush paddy fields and peaceful orchards. As you immerse yourself in the rural atmosphere head to the ‘monkey bridge’, and if you feel brave enough, you might be able to cross it!

✓ Breakfast and Lunch

Day 5: Ho Chi Minh City/Cu Chi/Ho Chi Minh City

Take a break from the city and head to the Cu Chi tunnels for a unique experience. You’ll learn all about the underground tunnel network that was used during the Vietnam War. After the tour, you’ll be transferred back to your hotel in Ho Chi Minh City for the night.

✓ Breakfast and Lunch

Day 6: Ho Chi Minh City/Con Dao

Flight to Con Dao, the archipelago that is part of southern Vietnam, and check-in at your hotel. Relax and marvel at the stunning scenery. if you’re feeling adventurous, you can even swim with the amazing array of marine life.

✓ Breakfast

Day 7 to Day 10: Con Dao Island

You will be spending the next four days leisurely exploring Con Dao. Get acquainted with the wide range of attractions and activities. On one of the days, embark on a tour to landmark sites such as Hang Duong Cemetery, Con Dao Museum, and the French-style architecture of Con Son Town. You can try diving, snorkelling, trekking to the Bay Canh Islet or even visit the Turtle Conservation Centre.

✓ Breakfast

Day 11: Con Dao/Ho Chi Minh City Departure

Bid Con Dao a fond farewell and return to Ho Chi Minh City. After spending a cultural and beach holiday, it’s time to say goodbye to this beautiful country. We’ll make sure you return home with once-in-a-lifetime memories.

✓ Breakfast

Price

£1,625

– Price per person based on two-people group size.

– The price is subject to availability, based on twin or double room sharing.

– Peak season surcharges may apply during local public holidays.

Please note, this package is an example of our many exciting daily offers. We are happy to check up-to-date prices for the dates and times that suit you for your perfect package holiday, or to tailor or upgrade elements of any package. Please feel free to contact us at enquiry@asiara-holidays.com or call us on 01473 356 000.

Tour Map

Tour Summary

Day 1: Ho Chi Minh City Arrival Arrive in the vibrant city of Ho Chi Minh, check into your hotel, and enjoy an orientation tour guided by our experts.

Day 2: Ho Chi Minh City Exploration Visit iconic landmarks like the Jade Emperor Pagoda, Reunification Palace, Notre Dame Cathedral, and Ben Thanh market.

Day 3: Vinh Long and Can Tho Explore the floating markets of Vinh Long before heading to Can Tho to experience the bustling Cai Rang floating market.

Day 4: Can Tho to Ho Chi Minh City Return to Ho Chi Minh City with a stop at Thoi Son Island to witness rural life and brave the famous ‘monkey bridge’.

Day 5: Cu Chi Tunnels Discover the historic Cu Chi tunnels, a remnant of the Vietnam War, before returning to Ho Chi Minh City.

Day 6: Flight to Con Dao Fly to Con Dao, where you’ll check into your hotel and have the chance to enjoy the stunning scenery and marine life.

Day 7-10: Explore Con Dao Island Spend four leisurely days exploring Con Dao, visiting landmarks, trying water activities, and immersing yourself in the island’s beauty.

Day 11: Return to Ho Chi Minh City Bid farewell to Con Dao and return to Ho Chi Minh City, concluding your cultural and beach holiday in Vietnam.

FAQs

1. What should I expect on my first day in Ho Chi Minh City?
   • Upon arrival, you’ll check into your hotel and enjoy an orientation tour to familiarize yourself with the city’s bustling streets and vibrant atmosphere.
2. What are the highlights of the Ho Chi Minh City exploration day?
   • You’ll visit iconic landmarks such as the Jade Emperor Pagoda, Reunification Palace, Notre Dame Cathedral, and the bustling Ben Thanh market.
3. What makes the Vinh Long and Can Tho day unique?
   • You’ll explore the picturesque floating markets of Vinh Long and experience the lively Cai Rang floating market in Can Tho, immersing yourself in local culture.
4. What’s included in the day trip from Can Tho back to Ho Chi Minh City?
   • On your return journey, you’ll stop at Thoi Son Island to witness rural life and have the opportunity to cross the famous ‘monkey bridge’.
5. What will we discover at the Cu Chi Tunnels?
   • The Cu Chi Tunnels offer a historical glimpse into the Vietnam War, with a chance to explore the intricate underground network used by Vietnamese soldiers.
6. What awaits us during our time in Con Dao?
   • In Con Dao, you’ll enjoy scenic beauty, pristine beaches, and activities like diving, snorkelling, and visits to landmarks such as Hang Duong Cemetery and Con Dao Museum.
7. How does the tour conclude?
   • After your exploration of Con Dao, you’ll return to Ho Chi Minh City, wrapping up your cultural and beach holiday with unforgettable memories of Vietnam.