12 Day Christmas and New Year’s Eve in Vietnam Holiday

Highlights of the Trip

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 quintessential Vietnamese dish. Pho is a fragrant noodle soup made with rice noodles (bánh phở), beef or chicken, and a rich broth flavoured with herbs and spices such as star anise, cinnamon, and ginger. It is often served with fresh herbs, bean sprouts, lime, and chili. You could also try Bun Cha. Originating from Hanoi, Bun Cha consists of grilled pork (cha) served over a bed of rice noodles (bún) and accompanied by a bowl of dipping sauce made from fish sauce, vinegar, and sugar. It is often served with fresh herbs and fried spring rolls.

Water-based Activities and Cruises

• Cruise along the Perfume River in Hue.
• Cruise along in a traditional ‘Thung Chai’ basket boat in Hoi An.
• Boat trip to visit the Cai Be Floating Market and local handicraft industries.
• Boat Cruise to Cai Rang Floating Market: Embrace the traditional Mekong Delta Lifestyle.

Accommodation of this Tour

• Hanoi: Hanoi La Siesta Classic Hotel (an exclusive oasis in the Hanoi Old Quarter, just a
short walk to the legendary Hoàn Kiem Lake – Deluxe room).

• Hue: Eldora Hotel (Located in the heart of the city within walking distance to many tourist
attractions, exquisite style, spacious room – Deluxe City View room).

• Hoi An: Lasenta Boutique Hotel (located in a quiet part of town overlooking the verdant
rice fields, only 5-minute drive from Hoi An Ancient town – Deluxe Rice Field view room).

• Ho Chi Minh City: Eden Star Saigon hotel (city centre location, nice rooftop swimming pool – Premium Deluxe room).

• Can Tho: Victoria Can Tho Resort (a quiet retreat on the banks of the Hau River, good
garden setting, colonial architecture – Superior Room).

This is a private tour departing on 20th December 2024. Price is per person based on 2 people sharing. For Christmas Eve and New Year’s Eve, the client will join other guests for a festive dinner at the properties you will be staying in.

Itinerary

Day 1: Hanoi arrival

Upon arrival at Noi Bai airport in Hanoi, you’ll be met and driven to your hotel. You’ll have time to relax after your journey. You will have a ‘Welcome’ dinner at a restaurant in a refurbished French colonial villa.

✓ Dinner

Day 2: Hanoi/Hue 

Your morning will be free until your car and driver arrives to take you to the airport for your flight to Hue. When you arrive, you’ll be met by a guide and driven to your hotel to check in. You’ll then take a boat cruise to Thien Mu, a tranquil pagoda on the banks of the Perfume River, before driving along the river to Emperor Minh Mang’s mausoleum. You’ll then drive back to Hue to visit the Dong Ba market.

Each Royal mausoleum reflects the personality of the emperor it commemorates. The most majestic is that of Emperor Minh Mang, a staunch follower of Confucianism with many wives, concubines and a small army of children. Planned by the Emperor and built shortly after his death, the tomb is opulent and exotic in formal Chinese style – a good example of classic Sino-Vietnamese architecture. 

✓ Breakfast

Day 3: Cycling to get closer to Hue’s life (25km)

Bike from Hotel – Ngoc Son garden house and temple – Imperial Citadel – Phu Mong Kim Long – Thien Mu Pagoda – Hotel (30 km).

In the morning, your bicycles will be ready for you to ride through Dong Ba market to Ngoc Son Princess “garden houses” It has an attractive family altar and the owner is an expert on Hue’s culture and history – he will be pleased to explain the geomantic principles underpinning the building and garden’s construction. Then your route will take you back to the Old quarter to visit Tay Loc airfield ruin and the Imperial Citadel. After lunch, you will visit some of the garden houses in Phu Mong Kim Long village if you wish, then loop back to your hotel.

The garden houses are a unique feature of Hue. The houses are traditional, privately owned, and set in attractive formal gardens. Some have connections with the old Royal Imperial Court. Hue traditional architecture has long had close associations with the natural environment. The garden houses reflect this association. Each is highly individual – house and garden, people and scenery, plants, clouds and water co-exist and blend with each other in a harmonious context. The narrow streets and abundant flora give the garden house area a country village feeling.

✓ Breakfast and Lunch

Day 4: Hue/Danang/Hoi An

In the morning, your car will pick you up for the journey to Danang. On the way, you’ll cross the scenic Hai Van Pass, where views of Lang Co Beach, its peaceful village, and the lagoon make the trip feel extra special. Starting your day with mountain vistas and a calm coastline (weather permitting) is a perfect way to embrace the festive mood. Once in Danang, you’ll make a brief stop at the Cham Museum to explore its fascinating collection of ancient artifacts. From there, you’ll continue to the charming town of Hoi An.

After lunch, the afternoon is yours to relax. You might take a leisurely stroll through Hoi An’s lantern-lit streets, which have a magical festive glow at this time of year, or simply unwind at your seaside hotel. In the evening, enjoy a Christmas Eve gathering with a festive dinner, blending local charm with a touch of Christmas cheer.

Hoi An town is a UNESCO Cultural World Heritage area. An ancient trading port, once the largest in Indochina, Hoi An was a meeting point for many cultures that left their mark in the different architectural features of its wooden buildings. The original traditional street pattern still exists, as does the quay that once welcomed ships from all over East Asia and beyond. Many remained there for months at a time, waiting for favourable trade winds to carry them home. There are plenty of good restaurants offering a variety of cuisines and price levels. The town is also a good place for shopping for silk. You can have your clothes tailor-made within a day or two at reasonable cost.

Hoi An town is five kilometres from Cua Dai Beach – part of what was known as China Beach and used for rest and recreation by American GIs during the Vietnam War. The beach is composed of white sand, is fringed with palm trees and overlooks the South China Sea.

✓ Breakfast and Lunch

Day 5: Hoi An – From Farmer to Fisherman Tour ½ day (Join-in tour)

The day starts with cycling the narrow roads through the countryside, passing by rice paddy fields, water buffalos, bamboo bridges and local farmers on their daily work. You’ll then board a boat to the mouth of the Thu Bon estuary where the river meets the Cua Dai Sea and cruise along the coastline observing the lives of the local fishermen.

After joining the fisherman to try your hand at catching fish in a traditional ‘Thung Chai’ basket boat, you will meander through the water palm coconut canal. During the American War, Viet Cong soldiers made use of this area as a highly effective hiding place from enemy attacks. Following an insightful visit to a local fishing village, you’ll be free to relax and enjoy a fresh seafood lunch before cycling back to your hotel.

Thung Chai Basket boats, similar in style to coracles in use throughout the ancient world, are widely used throughout Central Vietnam, and are highly suited to the local terrain and lifestyles of local fishermen due to their relative light weight and portability, often doubling as a carrier for various handy items. Circular and constructed of bamboo and tarred for waterproofing, these small boats can typically carry up to five people, and represent a fun-filled opportunity to touch the authentic rural soul of Vietnam.

As a precaution, life jackets are provided for your safety during this excursion. Please note that the clothing and footwear used for activities is likely to get wet and or dirty out on the water, in the mud and basket boats. Travellers are suggested to bring sufficient spare clothes in case it rains or you get wet or dirty during the morning activity sessions. Please wear shoes that are comfortable, and can be worn in the mud. 

✓ Breakfast and Lunch

Day 6: Hoi An free day

The day will be free for strolling in the town, lazing on the beach, or whatever takes your fancy.

✓ Breakfast

Day 7: Hoi An/Danang/Ho Chi Minh City

After breakfast, your time is your own until your car arrives to take you to Danang airport for a flight to Ho Chi Minh City. Here, a guide will meet you and take you to your hotel. After checking in you’ll be free, perhaps for a preliminary wander around Ho Chi Minh City’s busy streets and shops.

In the evening, you’ll be picked up at the hotel for Vespa tour. Your first stop is to Café zoom to enjoy a cocktail and appetiser (inclusive) before adventuring into a favourite local eating spot. You’ll experience the nightlife of Saigon the way locals do, all from the back of a vintage Vespa scooter. Then the tour will continue to a hidden Vietnamese-style coffee shop to have a taste of Vietnamese music (live) as a local.

The tour will start with a ride to part Chinatown and then head to District 4 through busy streets and alleys to see the night life of locals and enjoy street sea- food and cold drinks. Leaving district 4 to district 3 the tour passes through downtown district 1 to take in the sights on the way to Banh Xeo, specialty of Saigon, and southern food with the locals.

✓ Breakfast and Dinner

Day 8: Ho Chi Minh City Orientation

After breakfast, your guide will arrive to show you around Ho Chi Minh City. You’ll visit the History Museum where there is a special exhibition of the 5th century ‘Oc Eo’ civilisation. Alternatively, you’ll visit the Fito Museum – First Museum of Traditional Vietnamese Medicine – which is host to a large collection of relics, including traditional Vietnamese medicinal implements, and chronicles the history of medical practice in Vietnam from 2000 BC.

The Museum of War Remnants provides an overview of the ‘American War’. The Binh Tay market is located in China Town which is the biggest in Ho Chi Minh City.

You’ll also call in at the Jade Emperor Temple. This is one of the best Taoist temples in Vietnam, with superb effigies, remarkable carved panels of the descent to Hell and somewhat incongruous terrapin and tortoise sanctuaries. You’ll then return your hotel for freshen up or wander around the huge Ben Thanh market, one of the liveliest areas of Ho Chi Minh City.

✓ Breakfast and Lunch

Day 9: Cai Be – Experience lifestyle with local people in Mekong delta /Can Tho

After escaping from Ho Chi Minh City’s urban sprawl, you’ll travel to Cai Be. After approx. 2.5 hours’ drive, you’ll arrive at Cai Be pier. You’ll take a boat trip to visit the Cai be floating market. The boat cruise will also take you to visit some of the handicraft industries cottage on the bank of the river like: coconut candy, rice crackers and a honey bee farm.

After, you will head straight to Tan Phong Island where you’ll visit many fruit orchards like durian, rambutan, Longan, Plum, Jackfruit (seasonal), you can pick and taste some of the fruits as you wish. Continuing to Mr. Nam On, you’ll learn of the traditional instruments and enjoy folk song show performance by the local artists on the island. After, you’ll take a small sampan to the Mekong Ecolodge. Here you will enjoy a cooking class of local dishes of the Mekong area.

You’ll have a short break before taking the bicycles to start exploring. Here you can take part in activities with the locals, such as learning how to knit water hyacinth, making rice paper cake, and a nail polish tool by bamboo. You can try your hand to any process as you wish. After, you will drive to Can Tho, the capital of the Mekong delta region.

✓ Breakfast and Lunch

Day 10: Can Tho/Ho Chi Minh City

After breakfast and a boat cruise you’ll arrive at Cai Rang floating market on the Mekong Delta. Both the journey and the market provide insights into the rural Mekong Delta lifestyle. On your return to Ho Chi Minh City, you’ll call in at the beautiful and ancient Vinh Trang pagoda, 3 km from My Tho centre. You’ll arrive in Ho Chi Minh City in the late afternoon with time to freshen up in the hotel.

Vinh Trang Pagoda is renowned for its architectural mixture of Chinese, Vietnamese and Angkor styles. It’s Located on a 2-hectare block with 5 buildings, 2 ornamental yards, 178 pillars and many valuable statues (especially the statues of 18 arahants which were carved from wood and made in 1907) the pagoda will give you a deeper look into the relationship between Vietnamese art and Buddhist beliefs.

✓ Breakfast and Lunch

Day 11: Ho Chi Minh City free day

A free day to enjoy at your own pace. Whether you choose to explore or take some time to relax and reflect, the day is yours. In the evening, you’ll join the Gala New Year’s Eve Dinner Party to welcome the New Year with delicious food and a festive atmosphere. It’s a lovely way to end the day and ring in the New Year, surrounded by the vibrant energy of the city.

✓ Breakfast

Day 12: Ho Chi Minh City departure

You’ll be free until your car arrives to take you to Ho Chi Minh City’s Tan Son Nhat airport for your departure flight.

✓ Breakfast

Price

£2077

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

Tour Map

Tour Summary

Day 1 – Hanoi Arrival

When arriving in Noi Bai Airport in Hanoi, you will be driven to your hotel to relax. In the evening, enjoy a Welcome Dinner in a refurbished French Colonial Villa.

Overnight at Hanoi La Siesta Classic Hotel.

Day 2 – From Hanoi to Hue

Enjoy a free morning before your flight to Hue. Enjoy a boat cruise to Thien Mu and Emperor Minh Mang’s Mausoleum. Later, visit the Dong Ba Market.

Overnight at Eldora Hotel.

Day 3 – Cycling around Hue

Cycle to Ngoc Son Princess, the Old Quarter, Tay Loc airfield ruin, and the Imperial Citadel. After lunch, you can visit various garden houses in Phu Mong Kim Long Village.

Overnight at Eldora Hotel.

Day 4 – From Hue to Hoi An

Pass Hai Van on the way to Danang. In Danang, visit the Cham Museum. Enjoy free time in Hoi An before a Christmas Eve Party.

Overnight at Lasenta Boutique Hotel.

Day 5 – Farmer to Fisherman Tour

Cycle through the countryside, before embarking on a fisherman tour. Try catching some fish, meander along the river in a Thung Chai basket, and visit a local fishing village.

Overnight at Lasenta Boutique Hotel.

Day  6 – Hoi An Free Day

Enjoy a free day in Hoi An.

Overnight at Lasenta Boutique Hotel.

Day 7 – Hoi An to Ho Chi Minh City

Enjoy free time before your flight to Ho Chi Minh City. Experience an evening vespa tour, engaging with this city’s nightlife and delicious cuisine.

Overnight at EdenStar Saigon Hotel.

Day 8 – Explore Ho Chi Minh City

Today, visit the History Museum (or instead, explore the Fito Museum). You will also visit the Museum of War Remnants, the Binh Tay Market, and the Jade Emperor Temple. In the evening, wander around the Ben Thanh Market.

Overnight at EdenStar Saigon Hotel.

Day 9 – Cai Be, Local Lifestyle

Travel to Cai Be and take a boat ride to Cai Be floating market and local handicraft industries. Head to Tan Phong Island to visit fruit orchards, before visiting Mr. Nam On, to learn about traditional instruments and folk song.  Ride a sampan and enjoy a cooking class. After, bike and experience activities with locals. Then drive to Can Tho.

Overnight at Victoria Can Tho Resort.

Day 10 – Can Tho

Visit the Cai Rang floating market on a boat cruise. Later, stop at the Vinh Trang pagoda on your way back to Ho Chi Minh.

Overnight at EdenStar Saigon Hotel.

Day 11 – Free time in Ho Chi Minh City

Enjoy free time in this city. You can enjoy the Gala New Year Dinner Party.

Overnight at EdenStar Saigon Hotel.

Day 12 – Departure

Enjoy free time before your flight.

Tour FAQs

When is the best time of year to experience this Tour?

Due to this being a Christmas and New Year tour, the travel month will be December (departure date on or around the 20^th December). In Hanoi, December brings cool, dry winter weather. Temperatures typically range from 15-22°C. As you continue to Hue and Hoi An in central Vietnam, expect variable but mild conditions. In southern Vietnam, including Ho Chi Minh City and the Mekong Delta, December marks the start of the dry season. Temperatures are warm and range from 25-32°C.

Who is this tour suitable for?

This tour is suitable for travellers who enjoy a blend of cultural immersion, historical exploration, and outdoor activities. This can include active travellers, food lovers, families, couples, and solo travellers. This tour is currently offered as a private tailored made tour.

What meals are included throughout this tour?

Within each day in the itinerary, the meals as listed are included.

Will there be vegetarian or special dietary options?

Vegetarian and special dietary requirements can be accommodated. Please inform us of any dietary restrictions in advance and we will do our best to accommodate.

Do I need a visa for Vietnam (travelling from the UK)?

For this specific tour, you will not require a visa. You can visit Vietnam without a visa up to 45 days for tourism or business. If you would like to stay for longer than 45 days, you will need to arrange a visa. Please be sure to check your country’s relevant website or contact us directly for up to date information.

What are the Passport Requirements for entering Vietnam (travelling from the UK)?

To enter Vietnam, you must ensure your passport has the following:

• An expiry date of at least 6 months after the date you arrive in Vietnam.
• At least 2 blank pages.
• No damage to your passport.

When entering Vietnam, ensure that your passport is stamped and that the correct visa expiry date is written in your passport. Please be sure to check your country’s relevant website or contact us directly for up to date information.

What should I pack for this tour?

In Hanoi bring layers for cooler, dry days. Light sweaters, long sleeves, and comfortable walking shoes will be ideal. In central Vietnam (Hue and Hoi An), expect mild weather with some rain early. A light waterproof jacket or poncho, along with breathable clothing, will be handy for cycling and exploring the historic sites. In the warmer south (Ho Chi Minh City and Mekong Delta), pack lightweight, summer clothing, sun protection (hat, sunscreen), and comfortable shoes for the boat trips and cycling tours. For activities like the Fisherman Tour, bring shoes and clothes you don’t mind getting a bit wet or muddy. Finally, consider a small backpack for daily excursions, as well as any personal essentials you may need for a variety of outdoor and city adventures.

We also recommend bringing a power adaptor (Vietnam uses Type A, C and D plug types), copies of important documents, personal first aid kit, insect repellent and sun protection.

What is the currency in Vietnam?

Vietnam’s currency is the Vietnamese đồng, abbreviated as VND. Banknotes are the most used form of currency.

Do I need Travel Insurance for this trip?

Travel insurance is not included in this trip, so will have to be arranged separately. When purchasing your travel insurance, we recommend for this to include medical care and emergency evacuation.

Which Airlines fly to Hanoi from London?

Common airlines include Vietnam Airlines, Qatar Airways, Emirates, Thai Airways, and Cathay Pacific.

Which Airlines fly from Ho Chi Minh City to London?

Common airlines include Vietnam Airlines, Qatar Airways, Emirates, Singapore Airlines, Cathay Pacific, Thai Airways, and British Airways.

Are flights between cities included in the tour?

Yes, flights between Hanoi to Hue and Danang to Ho Chi Minh City are included. Transportation to and from the airports is also arranged.

How physically demanding is this tour?

Moderate physical activity is involved, especially on Day 3 (25 km of cycling around Hue) and Day 5 (cycling and fishing activities). Please let us know if you require alternatives.

What can I expect from the ‘From Farmer to Fisherman’ tour on Day 5?

This half-day tour includes cycling through scenic countryside, observing and participating in farming and fishing activities, and experiencing life in a local fishing village. It offers a hands-on look into Vietnamese rural life and local traditions.

What are the main highlights of Hue and Hoi An?

In Hue, highlights include the Imperial Citadel, Minh Mang’s mausoleum, Thien Mu Pagoda, and the Dong Ba market. In Hoi An, you’ll explore the historic town, which is a UNESCO World Heritage Site, and have free time to visit its markets and nearby beaches.

What should I bring for the visit to the Mekong Delta on Days 9 and 10?

Bring comfortable clothing, a hat, sunscreen, insect repellent, and extra snacks if desired. Expect some exposure to the sun while exploring the orchards and floating markets.

What can I expect from the Vespa tour in Ho Chi Minh City on Day 7?

The Vespa tour includes a welcome cocktail, appetisers, and local delicacies at several local eateries. You’ll also enjoy live Vietnamese music and explore vibrant neighbourhoods, experiencing Saigon’s nightlife from the back of a vintage Vespa scooter.

Will I have free time to explore independently?

Yes, the itinerary includes a free day in Hoi An (Day 6), a free day in Ho Chi Minh City (Day 11), and time to explore on Day 7 before the Vespa tour.

Are there shopping opportunities during the tour?

Yes, there are several opportunities to shop for local goods, especially in Hanoi’s Dong Ba Market, Ho Chi Minh City’s Binh Tay Market, and Hoi An’s famous tailor shops.

What is the Gala New Year’s Eve Dinner Party on Day 11?

This special dinner is a festive New Year’s Eve celebration with delicious food and a lively atmosphere in Ho Chi Minh City. It provides a wonderful opportunity to celebrate the end of the tour and welcome the New Year with fellow travellers.

How is the tour adapted for those interested in Vietnamese history and culture?

This tour offers cultural and historical insights through visits to historical sites, local villages, and museums, with a focus on UNESCO World Heritage Sites, traditional markets, local artisans, and an opportunity to learn about traditional Vietnamese medicine and the history of the Mekong Delta.

How can I stay connected (internet and mobile) during the tour?

Wi-Fi is available at most hotels, and many cafés and public places offer free Wi-Fi. Consider purchasing a local SIM card for data if you need frequent connectivity.