Cultural Capitals of Southeast Asia Tour 21-Day | The best Tour Package from Bangkok to Ho Chi Minh City

Discover the best of Thailand, Laos, and Vietnam with our 21-day tour package. From the bustling streets of Bangkok to the tranquil countryside of Luang Prabang, and from the ancient ruins of Hoi An to the modern city of Ho Chi Minh City, this tour takes you on an unforgettable journey through Southeast Asia.

1. Visit the Grand Palace and Emerald Buddha in Bangkok: Explore the magnificent Grand Palace, home of the Thai royal family, and see the revered Emerald Buddha.
2. Experience Thai culture at Damnoen Saduak Floating Market and Railway Maeklong Market: Immerse yourself in the lively atmosphere of the floating market and witness the fascinating sight of vendors quickly packing up their wares as the train passes through the market.
3. Discover the ancient city of Chiang Mai and visit Doi Suthep Temple: Explore the charming city of Chiang Mai, and then ascend to Doi Suthep Temple, a sacred site perched on a hill with stunning panoramic views.
4. Trek through the beautiful Mae Tang region and participate in half-day Elephant Care: Embark on an exciting trek through the jungle and mountains of Mae Tang, and participate in half-day Elephant Care, where you can interact with elephants without riding them.
5. Visit the Golden Triangle and explore the Opium Museum: Discover the history of the Golden Triangle region, where Thailand, Laos, and Myanmar meet, and visit the Opium Museum to learn about the area's infamous drug trade.
6. Cruise along the Mekong River to Luang Prabang and visit Pak Ou Caves: Enjoy a scenic cruise along the Mekong River and explore the Pak Ou Caves, which contain thousands of Buddha images.
7. Discover the beautiful waterfalls and caves of Luang Prabang: Visit the Kuangsi Waterfalls and Pak Ou Caves, both of which offer breathtaking natural beauty.
8. Experience the rich culture and history of Vietnam in Hanoi, Hoi An, and Ho Chi Minh City: From the ancient ruins of Hoi An to the bustling streets of Ho Chi Minh City, experience the diverse and fascinating culture of Vietnam.

You'll arrive at Suvarnabhumi Airport in Bangkok. After clearing immigration and collecting your luggage, you'll be warmly greeted by our representative who will escort you to the hotel.

Once you arrive at the hotel, you'll be assisted with the check-in process. After check-in, you'll have the rest of the day to relax and explore Bangkok at your own pace.

You can choose to take a stroll through the bustling streets of Bangkok, visit the local markets, or indulge in some authentic Thai cuisine. Alternatively, you can simply relax and unwind in your comfortable hotel room.

Overnight in Bangkok.

Airport transfer includes.

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Accommodation Options:

True Siam Rangnam Hotel - 3-star or similar

Nouvo City Hotel - 4-star or similar

Valia Hotel Bangkok - 5-star or similar

After breakfast at the hotel, you'll embark on a sightseeing tour of Bangkok to visit some of its most famous temples and landmarks.

Your first stop is Wat Traimit, also known as the Temple of the Golden Buddha. This temple is famous for its solid gold image of Buddha, which is 900 years old and weighs five-and-a-half tons.

Next, you'll visit Wat Arun, also known as the Temple of the Dawn. This temple is one of the most well-known landmarks in Bangkok and is famous for its stunning architecture.

After that, you'll visit Wat Pho, which is the largest and oldest temple in Bangkok. It is also the birthplace of traditional Thai massage. The temple is home to the largest single Buddha image, known as the Reclining Buddha (Phra Buddhasaiyas).

Lunch is on your own, after which you'll continue to visit the most famous tourist places in Bangkok: the Royal Grand Palace and the Emerald Buddha. The Grand Palace is adjacent to Wat Phra Kaew and features European-inspired designs (with the exception of the roof) that contrast with the traditional Thai style of Wat Phra Kaew.

After visiting the Grand Palace, you'll return to your hotel and have the rest of the day to relax and explore Bangkok at your own pace.

Overnight in Bangkok

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Accommodation Options:

True Siam Rangnam Hotel - 3-star or similar

Nouvo City Hotel - 4-star or similar

Valia Hotel Bangkok - 5-star or similar

Start your day with a delicious breakfast at your hotel in Bangkok, and get ready for an exciting full day tour. Our first destination is the Damnoensaduak Floating Market, one of the most popular attractions in Thailand. Here, you will experience the hustle and bustle of local life as you explore the market on a traditional long-tailed boat. You can shop for fresh fruits, vegetables, souvenirs, and local delicacies, or simply immerse yourself in the vibrant atmosphere.

After the floating market, we will visit the Railway Market, also known as Maeklong Market. This unique market is located on an active railway track, and vendors have to quickly pack and move their stalls every time the train passes by. It's a fascinating sight to see, and you can even try some of the delicious street food while you're there.

We will then stop for a delicious lunch at a local restaurant, where you can taste some of the most authentic Thai cuisine. After lunch, we will return to Bangkok, and you will have the rest of the evening free to explore the city on your own.

Overnight in Bangkok.

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Accommodation Options:

True Siam Rangnam Hotel - 3-star or similar

Nouvo City Hotel - 4-star or similar

Valia Hotel Bangkok - 5-star or similar

Today, you'll take a flight to northern Thailand, specifically to Chiang Mai. Upon arrival in Chiang Mai, you'll meet your tour guide and transfer to your hotel.

Later in the day, we'll take you to visit one of Chiang Mai's most sacred temples: Wat Phra That Doi Suthep, located on a hilltop and built in the Northern Thai style. The temple houses a holy relic of Lord Buddha and offers a stunning panoramic view of the entire city.

After the temple visit, we'll transfer you back to your hotel where you'll have free time to relax and explore on your own. In the evening, you'll get to experience the famous "Khantoke Dinner," also known as the northern welcome dinner, which includes traditional hill tribe dancing.

Overnight in Chiang Mai.

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Accommodation Options:

White Boutique Hotel - 3-star or similar

The Rise Suites- SHA Extra Plus - 4-star or similar

Na Nirand Romantic Boutique Resort - 5-star or similar

On pick up from your hotel, we will head northwards to the Mae Tang area, making a brief stop at the local market at Mae Malai. From there, we will continue to a small riverside elephant camp (No ride). The elephants spend most of their time here, enjoying the company of a few trekkers, as well as having some space to roam to the river. At the elephant camp, you will be introduced to the elephants and shown how to care for these lovely animals. You will spend around 2 hours at the elephant camp, with the highlight being a trip to the river where you will get to help the elephants take their morning bath (make sure to bring a swimsuit!). Additionally, you will learn how to make traditional elephant medicine from natural ingredients, as well as a natural elephant scrubber made from forest vines.

Following the elephant camp, it will be time for lunch before embarking on the trek to the waterfall. You will trek through lush forest, following a little stream to a jungle waterfall where you can take a shower under the cooling cascade of water. Afterward, you will trek out of the jungle to the rafting camp, where you will board the white water rafting boats for the 5km paddle down the Mae Tang River. In the wet season, there are some big rapids on this stretch of water! At the end of the white water rafting, you will transfer to the waiting transportation and be driven back to Chiang Mai, where you will be transferred to your hotel. Overnight in Chiang Mai.

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Accommodation Options:

White Boutique Hotel - 3-star or similar

The Rise Suites- SHA Extra Plus - 4-star or similar

Na Nirand Romantic Boutique Resort - 5-star or similar

We will pick you up from your hotel in Chiang Mai in the morning, and then drive you to Chiang Rai. During the tour, you will visit two beautiful temples - the White Temple (Wat Rong Khun) and the Blue Temple (Wat Rong Suea Ten). These temples are well-known for their stunning architecture and intricate details.

After visiting the temples, we will take you to a local restaurant to enjoy a delicious lunch.

In the afternoon, we will check you into your hotel in Chiang Rai for an overnight stay. You can relax and enjoy the rest of the day at your leisure.

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Accommodation Options:

Chiangrai Green Park Resort - 3-star or similar

Laluna Hotel And Resort - 4-star or similar

The Imperial River House Resort - 5-star or similar

After breakfast, you will be driven to the Golden Triangle, the meeting point of Thailand, Laos, and Myanmar. There, you will visit the Hall of Opium museum to gain insight into the history of the opium trade in the region.

Next, you will take a boat trip on the Mekong River to Don Sao Island in Laos. Here, you can enjoy the unique experience of visiting another country for a brief period.

Afterward, you will have lunch at a local restaurant before returning to Chiang Rai. You will have the evening at your leisure to explore the city or relax at your hotel.

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Accommodation Options:

Chiangrai Green Park Resort - 3-star or similar

Laluna Hotel And Resort - 4-star or similar

The Imperial River House Resort - 5-star or similar

After enjoying breakfast at your hotel, check out and proceed to transfer to the border town of Houeixai to enter Laos. Upon arrival at the Houeixay Border, our representative will greet you and transfer you to the boat pier to embark on a traditional boat for a scenic journey down the Mekong River. During the trip, the boat will make two stops: the first at Pak Tha to take care of the necessary boat documents, and the second to visit a hill tribe village along the Mekong River. Our knowledgeable guide will provide insight into the lifestyle and heritage of these rural communities. A delicious lunch will be served on board, and in the afternoon, you will have free time to relax and sample local flavors with seasonal snacks and drinks.

The boat will reach Pakbeng before sunset, where you will check in to your accommodation for the night.

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Accommodation Options:

Pakpeng Lodge - 3-star or similar

Le Grand Pakpeng - 4-star or similar

Le Grand Pakpeng -4-star (local best)

After breakfast, we will visit the local market to experience the daily lifestyle of colorful hill tribe traders exchanging their goods. Next, we will venture into the mountainous and remote area of Northern Laos to reach Oudomxay. During the journey, we will stop at some tribal minority villages such as the Hmong and Khmu, as well as the pottery village of Ban Yor. Upon arrival in Oudomxay, we will transfer to the train station for your trip to Luang Prabang. Upon arrival in Luang Prabang, you will be met and transferred to your hotel. Luang Prabang has been claimed by UNESCO to be "the best-preserved city in South East Asia." The rest of the day is free for leisure activities. Overnight in Luang Prabang.

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Accommodation Options:

Villa Chitdara Hotel - 3-star or similar

Le Sen Boutique Hotel - 4-star or similar

Kiridara Hotel - 5-star or similar

After breakfast, we will start the day by visiting The National Museum at the former Royal Palace, which displays a beautiful collection of artifacts that showcase the richness of Lao culture throughout history. From there, we will take a leisurely walk through the quiet backstreets of Luang Prabang, exploring French colonial-era buildings of historical importance or architectural significance. Our journey will begin at the junction of the Mekong and Nam Khan Rivers, where one of the grandest French buildings still stands. We will learn about the original purpose of this structure and its significance to Luang Prabang's trade. Along the way, we will visit other well-preserved French buildings, such as the French school, the French hospital (now Amantaka Hotel), the house of a wealthy Chinese merchant (now Le Calao Restaurant), and residences that once belonged to the royal family (now Victoria Xiengthong Palace Hotel).

We will also visit the city's oldest temple, Wat Sene, and the magnificent Wat Xieng Thong, where you can see the impressive "tree of life" mosaic set in colored glass. We'll then proceed to visit the impressive stupa of Wat Visoun and the shrines of Wat Aham and Wat Mai. Our next stop is The Traditional Arts & Ethnology Centre, which is the first exhibition space and fair trade store dedicated to the collection, preservation, interpretation, and presentation of Laos' traditional arts and lifestyles.

Afterward, we will climb up to the top of Mount Phousi for an enjoyable exploration of the sacred, gilded stupa, as well as a panoramic view of the city at sunset. From there, we will explore the Night Market, where you can find a lovely selection of handmade textiles made by local and hill tribe people surrounding Luang Prabang. The rest of the evening is free for you to enjoy at your leisure. Overnight in Luang Prabang.

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Accommodation Options:

Villa Chitdara Hotel - 3-star or similar

Le Sen Boutique Hotel - 4-star or similar

Kiridara Hotel - 5-star or similar

An early start will give you a fantastic opportunity to participate in the daily morning alms-giving ritual to saffron-clad monks. This tradition is unique to Laos, as it is the only Buddhist nation still preserving this procession.

After breakfast, we will head out of town 30km to the beautiful Kuang Sii Falls. En route, we will stop to visit some ethnic minority villages and see how these colorful people live. We will then continue to the beautiful Khouangsi Waterfalls, where you can swim in the turquoise pools or walk along forest paths.

Once back in the city, we will board an upstream cruise on the Mekong River, which will give us a panoramic view of the tranquil countryside. We will make sure to stop at the Pak Ou Caves, which are sanctuaries consisting of two large caverns, both repositories for thousands of Buddha images. We will also stop at a few villages during the day, including Ban Muangkeo where the local rice wine is produced.

Lunch will be provided during the day. In the evening, you will have free time to explore the city or relax at your hotel. Overnight in Luang Prabang.

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Accommodation Options:

Villa Chitdara Hotel - 3-star or similar

Le Sen Boutique Hotel - 4-star or similar

Kiridara Hotel - 5-star or similar

After enjoying breakfast at the hotel, you will have some free time to relax and explore Luang Prabang on your own. Later, you will be transferred to the airport for your flight to Hanoi. Once you arrive in Hanoi, you will be greeted by your guide and transferred to your hotel for check-in. The rest of the day is free for you to explore the charming city of Hanoi on your own. You may want to visit the bustling Old Quarter, stroll around the scenic Hoan Kiem Lake, or taste some of the delicious local street food. Overnight in Hanoi.

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Accommodation Options:

TK-123 Hanoi - 3-star or similar

Lenid Hanoi Hotel - 4-star or similar

Hotel du Parc Hanoi - 5-star or similar

After enjoying a delicious breakfast at the hotel, you will be picked up by our friendly guide to begin your exploration of Hanoi City. The first stop will be at Tran Quoc Pagoda, located on Golden Fish Island in West Lake. This pagoda is the oldest in Hanoi and was built in the 6th century. Admire the stunning architecture and learn about the history and culture of this important landmark.

Next, visit the Ho Chi Minh complex, where you will have the chance to see the embalmed body of Ho Chi Minh. Take a leisurely walk around the garden to see the two houses where he lived and worked from 1954 to 1969. Then, visit the One Pillar Pagoda, which worships the Goddess of Mercy and is considered the most unique pagoda in the world.

Please note that Ho Chi Minh’s Mausoleum is closed on Mondays and Fridays. If your tour falls on either of these days, an alternative itinerary will be arranged.

Afterwards, head to the Vietnam Ethnology Museum to learn about the culture of the 54 ethnic groups living in Vietnam. However, if your tour falls on a Monday, the museum will be closed, and you will visit the Women’s Museum instead.

Enjoy a delicious lunch at our restaurant, where you will have the opportunity to taste some of the best Vietnamese cuisine.

After lunch, continue your tour with a visit to the Temple of Literature, the first university of Vietnam established in the 11th century. This is a great place to learn about the education system of Vietnam in ancient times.

The city tour will conclude with a visit to the Hoa Lo Prison, originally used by the French colonists in Indochina for political prisoners and later by North Vietnam for U.S. prisoners of war during the Vietnam War. During this later period, it was known to American POWs as the "Hanoi Hilton."

After an exciting day of exploring Hanoi City, you will be transferred back to the hotel for check in. Free at leisure and stay overnight in Hanoi.

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Accommodation Options:

TK-123 Hanoi - 3-star or similar

Lenid Hanoi Hotel - 4-star or similar

Hotel du Parc Hanoi - 5-star or similar

After enjoying breakfast at your hotel, our private mini-van/bus will pick you up between 8:30 am to 9:00 am to begin your journey to Halong City. During the 3.5-hour drive, you will have the opportunity to view the simple countryside and rice paddy life along the way. Once you arrive at the port, you will board your private boat - an authentic Chinese Junk - and begin your amazing cruise through the stunning Halong Bay, a World Heritage Site. Lunch will be served on board and will consist of a selection of the freshest seafood.

During the cruise, we will visit "the Amazing cave" and then take a swim in the tranquil emerald waters of Halong Bay. We will then cruise further into a quiet area where we will anchor and spend the night. You will enjoy dinner and relax as the sun sets over the bay. Afterward, you are free to swim in the phosphorescent water, retire to your cabin, or even fall asleep under the stars on the top deck, surrounded by the magic of Halong. You will spend the night on the boat, taking in the stunning surroundings of the bay.

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Accommodation Options:

Glory Legend Cruises - 3-star or similar

Pelican Cruises - 4-star or similar

Paradise Sails Cruises - 5-star or similar

Wake up early in the morning to witness a beautiful sunrise and breathe in the fresh ocean air. Enjoy breakfast served on the boat as we leisurely cruise through thousands of stunning and seemingly never-ending islands. This is an amazing opportunity to capture some breathtaking photographs of the scenery. We will also make a stop to visit a floating fishing village and hear legendary stories of the fishermen's daily life.

Lunch will be served on the boat as we cruise back to the Halong City pier. From there, we will return to Hanoi. You will arrive in Hanoi around 3:30 pm to 4:00 pm. A Legend Travel Group driver will be waiting for you to take you directly to the airport for your flight to Hoi An.

Upon arrival in Hoi An, our staff will pick you up and transfer you to your hotel for check-in. You will have some free time to explore the ancient town of Hoi An and its many attractions at your own pace. You may also choose to stroll along the picturesque streets, try some local delicacies or shop for souvenirs. Overnight in Hoi An Ancient Town.

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Accommodation Options:

Phu Thinh Resorts and Spa - 4-star or similar

Lantana Riverside Hoi An Hotel - 4-star or similar

KOI Resorts and Spa - 5-star or similar

Enjoy a full-day excursion to Hoi An, a charming and historic trading center that was once known as “Faifo” to the earliest Western traders. It was also an important port for the Dutch, Portuguese, Italian, Chinese, Japanese, and other merchant vessels from the Far East.

Your tour will start with a visit to a temple located in the center of Hoi An. The temple has partially gilded statues and reflects the influences of Chinese and Japanese styles. You will also visit a pagoda that is dedicated to sailors and fishermen, and a chapel that has origins dating back to the 1700s.

Next, you will stop at the Sa Huynh Museum, which is located near the iconic Japanese Covered Bridge. The museum contains exhibitions from the earliest period of Hoi An’s history, offering a glimpse into the city's rich and fascinating past.

Later in the afternoon, you will take a boat trip on the Thu Bon River to Kim Bong Village on Cam Kim Island. Here, you will see the skilled woodworkers and shipbuilding families who have been practicing their craft for generations. It's a unique opportunity to experience the traditional way of life in this part of Vietnam.

Finally, you will return to your haven on the world-famous “Cua Dai Beach.” Spend the evening at your leisure, relaxing on the beautiful beach and enjoying the stunning scenery. Overnight in Hoi An.

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Accommodation Options:

Phu Thinh Resorts and Spa - 4-star or similar

Lantana Riverside Hoi An Hotel - 4-star or similar

KOI Resorts and Spa - 5-star or similar

After having breakfast at the hotel, you will leave at 8:00 am to visit My Son, a UNESCO World Heritage site located 50 km southwest of Hoi An. My Son was once a capital and religious center of the Cham people and is now home to red brick towers and sanctuaries. It is considered to be one of Southeast Asia's greatest archaeological sites, along with Angkor in Cambodia, Bagan in Myanmar, Ayutthaya in Thailand, and Borobudur in Indonesia. The towers and sanctuaries were built between the 7th and 13th centuries.

During your visit, you will explore the lush valley and learn about the Cham civilization and their beliefs. You will have the opportunity to admire the intricate carvings and sculptures on the temples and learn about their significance.

You will return to Hoi An town for lunch on your own around 1:00 pm. In the afternoon, you will have some free time to go shopping or explore the town at your own pace. Hoi An is known for its beautiful lanterns, tailor-made clothing, and handcrafted souvenirs, so you might want to explore the local shops and markets.

The trip ends with an overnight stay in Hoi An.

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Accommodation Options:

Phu Thinh Resorts and Spa - 4-star or similar

Lantana Riverside Hoi An Hotel - 4-star or similar

KOI Resorts and Spa - 5-star or similar

After enjoying a delicious breakfast at the hotel, you have the morning free to relax or indulge in some shopping in Hoi An. Later, you will be transferred to the airport for a flight to Ho Chi Minh City. Upon arrival, a friendly and professional driver will be waiting to pick you up and transfer you to your hotel for check-in.

The rest of the day is free for you to explore the vibrant city of Ho Chi Minh at your own leisure. You could visit some of the city's many cultural attractions such as the War Remnants Museum or the Independence Palace, or take a leisurely stroll around some of the local markets to soak up the bustling atmosphere.

Alternatively, you may want to unwind and relax in your comfortable hotel room after a long day of travel. Whatever you choose to do, there is plenty to keep you entertained in this exciting city.

Stay overnight in Ho Chi Minh City and get ready for more adventure tomorrow.

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Accommodation Options:

Elios Hotel Saigon - 3-star or similar

Golden Central Hotel Saigon - 4-star or similar

Majestic Saigon Hotel - 5-star or similar

After enjoying breakfast at the hotel, embark on a fascinating journey through the highlights of Ho Chi Minh City. Visit the Notre Dame Cathedral, a stunning example of neo-Romanesque architecture built by the French in the 19th century. Next, stop at the historic Central Post Office, designed by Gustave Eiffel and featuring a beautiful interior of intricate maps, intricate designs, and arched windows. Then, explore the Reunification Palace, the former presidential palace of South Vietnam and a symbol of the country's tumultuous past.

After a break for lunch at a local restaurant, the afternoon takes you to the famous Cu Chi Tunnels, a popular destination for both Vietnamese and foreign tourists. The tunnels, which span over 200km, played a critical role during the Vietnam War and were functioning underground cities that included trap doors, living areas, storage facilities, weapon factories, field hospitals, command centers, and kitchens. You will learn about the construction of the tunnels and spend the next few hours exploring the tunnels and war remnants, gaining insights into the harsh conditions and ingenious methods used to maintain life in the tunnels. You'll even have a chance to sample some of the simple cuisine that local fighters survived on and venture into the tunnels to experience the complex firsthand.

After the tour, return to your hotel in Ho Chi Minh City for a comfortable overnight stay. The distance between Saigon and Cu Chi Tunnel is approximately 75 km, which takes about 1.5 hours to drive.

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Accommodation Options:

Elios Hotel Saigon - 3-star or similar

Golden Central Hotel Saigon - 4-star or similar

Majestic Saigon Hotel - 5-star or similar

After enjoying breakfast at your hotel, your tour guide will pick you up at 8:00 am to start your journey to My Tho, the capital city of Tien Giang Province. This picturesque city is located on the Mekong River, about 75 kilometers southeast of Ho Chi Minh City, and is known for its lush orchards and rice fields that produce grains for the entire country.

During your visit to My Tho, you'll have the chance to explore one or two of the islands known for producing traditional handcrafts, such as coconut candy and bee farms. You'll also visit the Vinh Trang Pagoda, which is the oldest pagoda in the Mekong Delta region. You'll take a boat trip along the Mekong River to reach the pagoda, which is surrounded by beautiful gardens and boasts intricate architecture and stunning sculptures.

After your tour of My Tho is complete, you'll return to Ho Chi Minh City, where you'll check in at your hotel and stay overnight.

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Accommodation Options:

Elios Hotel Saigon - 3-star or similar

Golden Central Hotel Saigon - 4-star or similar

Majestic Saigon Hotel - 5-star or similar

Enjoy breakfast at your hotel before departing for the airport for your international flight home or your next destination. We hope that you have had an amazing time in Vietnam with us and have created unforgettable memories. Thank you for choosing Legend Travel Group for your journey and we look forward to embarking on new adventures with you in the future.

Please note that airport transfer is included in your itinerary. Our team will ensure that your departure from Ho Chi Minh City is as smooth and hassle-free as possible.