On today’s full-day guided tour, you’ll explore all of the must-visit sites that played an important part in shaping Vietnam’s history. Starting at the Reunification Palace where an assassination bomb attempt on the Vietnam President took place, and a North Vietnamese tank also famously crashed through its gates, marking the end of the Vietnam War. There’s tunnels, war command rooms with original maps, government rooms, and artefacts.

Next up, the Notre Dame Cathedral, which was established by French colonists between 1863-1880. Famous for its beautiful French-inspired architecture, and two towering bell towers that reach 58 metres tall, it’s truly a sight to behold. All of the original building materials were imported from France and the statue of the Virgin Mary outside once reportedly shed a single tear.

Afterwards, you’ll head to the Central Post Office and the War Remnants Museum for a more in-depth look at the history and culture of Vietnam and remnants of the French colonial past. From there, you’ll take a 2.5-hour drive to the famous Cu Chi Tunnels where you’ll explore some of the 250km stretch of tunnels that Vietnamese resistance fighters dug by hand in the 1940s as protection from the French air raids. 

Free time recommendations: 

After a day of exploring, you’ll head back to Ho Chi Minh City. Wander down Nguyen Hue Boulevard, a pedestrian promenade in the middle of French buildings that holds a mesmerising nighttime fountain show. Afterwards, enjoy the 360-degree views 180 metres high from the bar on the 50th floor of the Saigon Skydeck – entry cost is VND 200,000 (£6/$8) and you can grab a drink for roughly the same price. End the evening in one of the many rooftop bars in the city – Skyloft by Glow is one of our personal favourites. 

Today you’re off to explore Vietnam’s picturesque Mekong Delta. After an early morning pick-up from your hotel in Ho Chi Minh, you’ll head to My Tho and see the peaceful Buddhist Vinh Trang Pagoda. Then, hop on a boat for a relaxing cruise along the Mekong River itself, passing by stilt houses, rice paddies, fruit plantations and fishing villages. 

Enjoy a tasty Vietnamese lunch on the Tortoise Islet before continuing on a boat to An Khanh in the beautiful green province of Ben Tre. Here, you’ll enjoy a light snack of seasonal fruit and aromatic honey tea to the sound of Vietnamese folk music. Stop by for a visit to a coconut candy family business for a glimpse into the lives of local villagers, before heading back to Ho Chi Minh City.

Free time recommendations: 

If you want to do something extra special for your last evening in Ho Chi Minh, chat to us about booking the Bonsai River Cruise. From £40pp, you’ll end your day cruising down the Saigon River and enjoying an east-meets-west buffet dinner with interactive cooking and a live band. Or, if you just fancy a chilled one, get lost exploring the city and grab a traditional Banh Mi in Banh Mi Hong Hoa – you won’t regret it!

This morning you’ll catch the short flight from Ho Chi Minh to the cosy coastal town that overlooks the South China Sea, Nha Trang. This high-rise and high-energy beach resort is home to remnants of the Champa Kingdom, Buddhist temples, gothic-style Catholic churches, along with a selection of stunning beaches and off-shore islands.

With plenty of time on the agenda today for some R’n’R, why not spend it chilling on the white sands on one of Nha Trang’s beaches that define the shoreline? The main beach, Tran Phu, is easy to walk to from almost anywhere in Nha Trang and has a lively seaside promenade with restaurants, bars, and activities. Or, just a short journey away, is Nhu Tien Beach; a luxury, quiet, and privately-owned beach for the ultimate chill day! 

If you’re keen to explore the city, why not book a cruise down the Cai River and explore the ancient Po Nagar Cham Towers that date back to 800AD. Visit the largest church in the city, Nha Trang Cathedral, with mass ceremonies taking place every day. And if you’ve got the time, be sure to climb to the Long Son Pagoda to see the large white Buddha statue and amazing views of the city. Be sure to end strolling the Nha Trang Night Market and dining along the Tran Phu beachfront.

Get ready for a full day of adventure at a world-class recreational paradise located on one of the most beautiful gulfs in the world: Vinpearl Land. This extraordinary amusement park and beachside water park combined offers adrenaline-boosting rides, refreshing water adventures, and stunning greenery all in one stunning place. 

Your adventure starts with a ride on the Nha Trang cable car to Vinpearl Land, one of the world’s longest cable cars that spans a length of 3,320m. It will take you from the mainland, across the sea, to the Hon Tre Island, where you’ll be greeted by the Vinpearl Land grand entrance. 

Get a serious adrenaline kick from the Evolution Ride (with nonstop 360-degree rotations), the giant Sky Wheel, and the famous Alpine Coaster in the amusement park. Walk the botanical gardens of Blooming Hill, see the rare animals in the King’s Garden, explore the Aquarium, or even hit up Bai Tru Beach. Be sure to bring your swimming gear for the Water Park Beach where a total-wipeout-style inflatable obstacle course awaits!

Free time recommendations:

Make the most of your last evening in Nha Trang exploring the town, eating, and drinking. Lac Canh is a barbecue joint filled with smoke and laughter (and meats that you can grill over charcoal at your table). Or Yên Vegetarian is a great spot for cheap-but-cheerful veggie and vegan options. Enjoy a killer cocktail menu on the seafront in the Skylight Bar. There’s even a sky bar lounge on the 43rd floor if you fancy a late one!

This morning you’ll swap the coast for the hills as you head to the charming town of Da Lat, the capital city of Lam Dong province. Situated on a plateau 1,500 metres above sea level, Da Lat was developed as a resort by the French in the early 1900s, and many reminders of its colonial heritage remain. Some even call it ‘Le Petit Paris’ and the town even features a mini-replica Eiffel Tower in its centre! 

In the afternoon, you’re off to explore the Clay Sculpture Tunnel and be mesmerized by diverse and unique art pieces on display. Marvel at hundreds of statues of monkeys, elephants, antique houses, churches, pagodas, and more. The park’s man-made wonders were lovingly crafted using mixtures of red soil, stone powder, and cement. 

Free time recommendations:

Once you’re back in Da Lat, be sure to check out the Linh Son Pagoda. Built in 1938, this lovely ochre-coloured building fuses French and Chinese architecture. Next, head to the must-see Crazy House which is listed as one of the world’s ten most bizarre buildings. Next, grab a drink and work your way through the multistory maze in the 100 Roofs Cafe Bar. Once you get through, the maze opens into a tiered garden with an amazing view of the city!

Discover why Da Lat is known as the ‘City of Eternal Spring’ and is famous amongst honeymooners, and nature lovers on a full-day guided tour. Explore its natural wonders and historic, religious sites. 

Your day begins with a cable car journey connecting you to Robin Hill, with panoramic views of Da Lat City from the sky. You’ll have the option to take the cable car down to visit the peaceful Tuyen Lam Lake, as well as Truc Lam Zen Monastery – the biggest Zen University in Vietnam. Enjoy the peaceful scenery of this paradise surrounded by pine forests, lakes, and flower gardens.

Next, you’ll head south to see Datanla Waterfall – which can even be entered on a toboggan ride! On the way back to Dalat City, visit the Bao Dai King’s Summer Palace, the last emperor’s house. After a tasty lunch, you’ll visit Da Lat Flower Garden which is known as the ‘Paradise of Flowers’. Take a walk in the Bonsai Park, stroll along the lakeside, go horse riding or pedal on the lake. After a visit to an embroidery village and giant golden statue of the Sakyamuni Buddha, you’ll explore the Romanesque-style Cathedral of Dalat City. 

Free time recommendations: 

Make the most of your last evening in Da Lat ticking off some must-see places. Visit the Domaine de Marie – a perfectly pastel-pink church on a hill, built in a style reminiscent of 17th Century French architecture. Next, take a stroll by the must-see Xuan Huong Lake, also known as the heart of Da Lat city. Enjoy dinner overlooking the smooth waters that resemble a crystal mirror, reflecting the pine forest around it. This national beauty spot is not one to be missed! 

End the evening with a stroll through the French Quarter, admiring the long avenue of villas which were once the holiday homes of the wealthy and used to escape the summer heat of Saigon in the early 1900s.

After an epic week exploring the South of Vietnam, it’s time to say farewell as you head back to Nha Trang for your flight home. 

Fancy sticking round to explore? Why not add on the Central Vietnam Highlights package where you’ll head straight to the ancient capital of Hue for another 7 nights of action-packed adventure. 

Or, if you’re keen to explore the majestic wonders of the north, then the North Vietnam Highlights package is for you, where your next stop is the bustling capital of Hanoi.