SOUTHERN VIETNAM HIGHLIGHTS (7 days)

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SOUTHERN VIETNAM HIGHLIGHTS (7 days)

This 7-day journey through Southern Vietnam offers a harmonious blend of nature, history, and culture, from the dynamic streets of Ho Chi Minh City to the lush waterways of the Mekong Delta in Ben Tre and the tropical serenity of Phu Quoc Island. Combining iconic landmarks with authentic local encounters, the tour invites travelers to explore Vietnam’s vibrant past, rich traditions, and natural beauty at a relaxed and engaging pace.

A travel experience like no other

This sample itinerary was created by experts and is meant to inspire your next trip. It is ready to be customized to suit your interests, tastes and budget so you can connect with local cultures and experience authentic travel on your own terms and departing whenever you choose.
  • Day 1
    HO CHI MINH CITY ARRIVAL
  • Day 2
    CU CHI TUNNELS & HISTORIC SITES (B,D)
  • Day 3
    MEKONG DELTA (B,L)
  • Day 4
    HO CHI MINH CITY – PHU QUOC ISLAND (B)
  • Day 5
    PHU QUOC ISLAND (B,L)
  • Day 6
    PHU QUOC ISLAND (B)
  • Day 7
    PHU QUOC - DEPARTURE (B)
  • Day 1

    HO CHI MINH CITY ARRIVAL

    Upon arrival to Tan Son Nhat International Airport you will be welcomed by your guide holding a sign with your name on it. He will escort you to your hotel (approx. 30-minute-drive). Check in time is after 2 PM.

    Ho Chi Minh City, formerly Saigon, is Vietnam’s largest and most dynamic metropolis—alive with constant movement, modern skyscrapers, and endless shopping and entertainment. Beneath its dazzling energy, the city also preserves a rich historical legacy that contrasts beautifully with its contemporary charm. Depending on your arrival time, start exploring the colonial charm of the city center. Begin your journey at the Jade Emperor Temple (Phước Hải), one of Vietnam’s few Taoist sanctuaries, built in 1909 and dedicated to the celestial ruler of heaven. Step inside and you’ll find yourself surrounded by incense smoke, carved wooden statues, and the mystical atmosphere of a century-old place of worship.

    Continue to the Notre-Dame Cathedral of Saigon (currently under restoration), an elegant neo-Romanesque landmark built by the French more than 130 years ago, using red bricks and materials shipped all the way from Marseille. Just a short walk away stands the Central Post Office, a beautiful fusion of Gothic and Renaissance styles designed in the early 1900s, often attributed to the world-renowned architect Gustave Eiffel.

    Your final stop is the iconic Ben Thanh Market, whose clock tower has become a symbol of the city. This bustling marketplace, dating back to 1870, is packed with stalls selling everything from clothing and handicrafts to aromatic spices and lacquerware—an ideal place to soak up local life and shop for souvenirs.

    Back to hotel and free at leisure.

    Meal: N/A

    Overnight at hotel in Ho Chi Minh City

     

  • Day 2

    CU CHI TUNNELS & HISTORIC SITES

    Meet your guide at your hotel and heading to Bach Dang pier. Depart to Cu Chi by speedboat. Upon arrival at the Cu Chi Tunnels, uncover the ingenuity and resilience of the villagers who carved out this vast underground network—complete with meeting rooms, kitchens, and infirmaries—hidden so skillfully that tanks once rolled above without detection. Life below ground was harsh, marked by scarcity, cramped quarters, and constant danger, yet it remains a powerful testament to the spirit of the Vietnamese people.

    Return to the city and continue your historical exploration with visits to the War Remnants Museum, home to compelling wartime photographs and artifacts, and the Reunification Palace, the former presidential residence and symbol of South Vietnam until 1975. Then strolling in China town to explore another part of Saigon's culture and history.

    As night falls, discover why Ho Chi Minh City is celebrated as a world-class street-food capital. After a brief safety introduction, hop on the back of a motorbike and follow your guide through lively neighborhoods and hidden alleys to sample the city’s favorite dishes—each stop revealing a unique story of culture and tradition. Conclude the evening at a vibrant music bar where Saigon’s new generation gathers, before returning comfortably to your hotel.

    Meal: Breakfast, dinner with street food

    Overnight at hotel in Ho Chi Minh City

     

  • Day 3

    MEKONG DISCOVERY

    This morning, travel into the countryside to Ben Tre on a scenic drive with your private driver and English-speaking guide. Upon arrival, hop on a traditional tri-motorcycle (xe lôi) and ride along narrow village paths lined with lush rice paddies and fruit orchards, offering a wonderful introduction to local rural life.

    At the waterfront, board the charming Mango Cruise and begin a leisurely journey through the Mekong Delta while sipping refreshing coconut juice and admiring the peaceful scenery. Your first stop is a coconut-processing workshop, followed by a visit to a traditional brick-making village, where locals still use centuries-old techniques to handcraft bricks.

    Continue with a cycling tour of Phong Nam Village (approximately 4 km), passing through quiet lanes and riverside landscapes. After a short ride, arrive at Mrs. Huong’s home, where her family makes a living through fishing, shrimp farming, and agriculture. Relax in her garden with tropical fruits and honey tea before boarding a rowing sampan, gently paddled by a local rower through a maze of narrow canals shaded by palms.

    Next, head to the Mango Home Restaurant to enjoy a delicious five-course lunch, followed by time to freshen up. Afterwards, switch back to bicycles for a short ride of about 500 meters (or a 7–10 minute walk) along village roads bordered by green gardens and local houses. Visit Mr. Ba Tài’s home to learn about the fascinating traditional process of rice wine making.

    The final highlight is a memorable visit to Mr. Sau Tường, a former Viet Cong soldier who survived two years of fighting against the Khmer Rouge in Phnom Penh. Today, he and his wife earn their living by making rice paper, the most famous specialty of My Long Village. Chat with him, watch the rice paper being made, and enjoy tasting the crispy finished product prepared by his wife.

    At around 15:30, a boat will be waiting at the nearby pier to take you back to Ben Tre City, where your vehicle will be ready for the return journey to Ho Chi Minh City.

    Meal: Breakfast, lunch

    Overnight at hotel in Ho Chi Minh city

     

  • Day 4

    HCMC – PHU QUOC ISLAND

    In the morning transfer to the airport for flying to Phu Quoc.

    Arrive at Phu Quoc airport. Meet your driver and get a transfer to your hotel.

    Check in hotel after 14h. Free at leisure.

     

    Meal: Breakfast

    Overnight at hotel in Phu Quoc

     

  • Day 5

    BOAT TRIP TO THE ISLANDS

    Escape to the turquoise waters of Phu Quoc’s southern archipelago on this refreshing island-hopping experience. Travel by speedboat to a collection of pristine islands, where crystal-clear seas, colorful coral reefs, and soft white-sand beaches create the perfect tropical getaway.

    Begin your journey with a transfer to An Thoi Port, where you board a speedboat and cruise across the calm waters of the Gulf of Thailand. Your first stop is Hon Gam Ghi, one of Phu Quoc’s best snorkeling sites, renowned for its vibrant coral gardens and rich marine life. Spend time swimming and snorkeling in the clear waters, suitable for both beginners and experienced snorkelers.

    Continue to Hon May Rut Trong, a tranquil island known for its beautiful beach and relaxed atmosphere. Enjoy free time to swim, unwind on the sand, or simply soak up the island scenery. A light meal or refreshments are served at a beachfront restaurant, allowing you to enjoy local flavors in a tropical setting.

    Conclude the tour with a visit to either Hon Thom or Hon Mong Tay, depending on sea conditions. Here, you can enjoy additional beach time, take photos, or relax before cruising back to the mainland and returning to your hotel.

    Meal: Breakfast, lunch

    Overnight at hotel in Phu Quoc

     

  • Day 6

    PHU QUOC ISLAND

    Free time at leisure.

     

    Meal: Breakfast

    Overnight at hotel in Phu Quoc

     

  • Day 7

    PHU QUOC ISLAND - DEPARTURE

    Free time at leisure.

    Check out your hotel at noon and transfer to the airport for departure flight. End tour.

    Meal: Breakfast

     

  • HO CHI MINH

    3* HAPPY LIFE GREEN (Deluxe)/ 4* EDEN STAR (Deluxe Window)/ 5* GRAND (Deluxe)

  • PHU QUOC ISLAND

    3* KIM HOA RESORT (Standard)/ 4* SUNSET BEACH RESORT (Deluxe room)/ 5* SOL BY MELIA (Standard)

INCLUSIVE

Accommodation in a twin or double room with daily breakfast

Private air-conditioned vehicle during all tours and transfers mentioned in the itinerary

English-speaking guide for guided tours 

Entrance fees for all visits mentioned in the itinerary

Boat trip as mentioned in the itinerary

Mineral water during the transfer (2 bottles per person per day) 

 

EXCLUSIVE

Domestic and international flights 

Personal expenses, such as laundry, telephone, drinks, etc. 

All other services not specified in the itinerary

Meals, if not specified in the itinerary

Vietnam visa approval letter on arrival 

Visa stamping fee at the airport (25US$ single entry to Vietnam paid by cash at the airport)

Gratuities for guides and drivers

Travel insurance (we highly recommend that you purchase adequate insurance)

 

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