Vietnam tour packages: Details and Tips for over 40s tourists

Why Vietnam is an Ideal destination for Seniors

Vietnam offers not only a long line of cultural heritage, natural beauty but also relaxing yet pocket-friendly experiences all year around. Vietnam is voted in the top 20 world’s best destinations by seniors, besides famous names like Japan, Bali and Turkey. Whether you are a nature admirer, a culture explorer or a foodie, a tour package from Vietnamese North to South absolutely brings well-rounded experiences. Follow us to know 5 highlight tourist cities as well as updates and tips to fill your bucket list. 

1. Cultural richness

Temple of Literature: One of the best reflections of 11th-century Vietnamese architecture is this first prestigious university of Vietnam to honor the eminent Chinese philosopher and educator Confucius. The surprisingly large temple ground consists of 5 courtyards and covered under large trees’ shades and manicured lawns. Besides its spectacular construction from the Ly Dynasty, 82 turtle statues record 1,307 names of exceptional scholars will catch your attention. These statues tell stories of many Vietnamese gifted so you will happen to see lots of Vietnamese students and their families on their tours to get blessed for academic paths. The entrance fee only takes $1 for temple maintenance and is included in tour packages. Opening hours 7 days/week: 8AM - 5PM.

One Pillar Pagoda: One Pillar Pagoda is also called Dien Huu Tu, which means “extended blessings”. Its architecture resembles a huge blooming lotus which is inspired by King Ly Thai Tong’s dream of Buddha sitting on this flower. Moreover, you can understand more of two indispensable symbols of Vietnam culture as your tour guides explain the sophisticated carved pattern of this pagoda. Remember to wear discreet clothing when visiting sacred places on Vietnam tours. Just in case you forget, tour guides on private tour packages would prepare scarves first hand. Free entrance 7 days/week: 7AM - 6PM.

The One Pillar Pagoda's architecture is inspired by the shape of Lotus. 

Ho Chi Minh Mausoleum: You may have heard of Ho Chi Minh President as UNESCO World Cultural Figure and Vietnam’s beloved leader. His final resting place is a highlight for many tour packages due to its sacred atmosphere and vivid representation of Vietnam war history in the 20th century. If you can get up early any day on your tour, record the Flag Hoisting ceremony taking place in Ho Chi Minh Mausoleum then you will understand Vietnamese pride and love for their national flag. The ticket fee of $1 will be included in your tour packages. Opening hour 7 days/week: 7AM - 5PM.

Hoa Lo Prison: Standing prominently in the bustling city center of Hanoi, Hoa Lo Prison holds the heroic story of the Vietnam war against French and American colonization. You will be speechless as you listen about the inhumane atrocities that Vietnamese patriots endured during the national liberation. It is one of the most visited attractions by foreign tourists due to its unique experience in tour packages. For fullest experience, Hoa Lo Prison hosts the ‘Sacred Night’ event in the evenings, which is a definitely worthy and rare experience of any Vietnam tour packages. The entrance fee is $1.2, but it is free for children under 15 years old. For students, seniors above 60 years old or those under social policies, the fee is $0.6. Opening hours 7 days/week: 8AM - 5PM.

Cu Chi Tunnels: This historic network of underground passageways brings back a courageous wartime history of Vietnam. Located just outside Ho Chi Minh City, this iconic destination is a must on Southern tours for senior travelers who seek meaningful stories behind the reconstructed bunkers and a realistic experience of coming down the tiny tunnels like Vietnamese soldiers had. Moreover, you can touch and take pictures of wreckage of airplanes and old tanks or with soldier statues. Tickets range from $19 to $30 for international friends based on ages and activities in Cu Chi Tunnels. If your Vietnam tour package does not include this activity, let us help customizing to add in at low prices.

Foreign friends were excited to grovel inside Cu Chi tunnels.

The Reunification Palace: One of Vietnam National Days is 30/4, marking the Day of the Liberation of the South and National Reunification as the tank crashed through the gate of the Reunification Palace in 1975. This event brought the South and North of Vietnam back together. For that, the Independence Palace where the victory happened, is an important historical witness. You will get more detail about it as once the residence of the Former South Vietnamese President during the tour speech. Opening hours 7 days/week: 8AM - 3:30PM.

Bat Trang Pottery village: When it comes to Vietnam, Bat Trang pottery village in Hanoi Capital cannot be overlooked. Visitors can explore the village's 500-year history and traditional pottery-making process from skilled artisans, demonstrate age-old techniques and share stories of the craft. Bat Trang’s tour packages even offer you hands-on pottery experience to bring home your own with affordable prices. Overall, these tours provide a relaxed, engaging environment for learning, shopping, and appreciating the beauty of handcrafted ceramics.

The Incense village Quang Phu Cau: If you are looking for an authentic and stunning check-in place, come to Incense village Quang Phu Cau to appreciate with your own eyes the village in famous pictures that you may have seen online. Part of the tour packages will be witnessing the traditional incense-making process in Quang Phu Cau village besides capturing vibrant images and crafting incense - an important spiritual item in Buddhism.

Quang Phu Cau village is covered in the vibrant red of incense.

2. Scenic beauty

Vietnam’s elongated land from North to South and bordered the East Sea, with diverse terrain creates stunning and one-of-a-kind natural landscapes scattered across the country. Many of which are recognized by UNESCO for their pristine and rare beauty. Until 2025, Vietnam has 8 UNESCO World Heritage sites, divided into 3 categories: Natural Heritage, Cultural Heritage and their mix. Both domestic and international tours always include Ha Long Bay, The Complex of Hue Monuments, Hoi An Ancient town, the Imperial Citadel of Thang Long and Trang An Landscape Complex as the most visited spots. Yet Vietnam scenic tours have always offered more so the only question is whether you are ready.

The Mekong Delta: Seen from above, the Mekong Delta resembles nine dragons rising into the sky so this area is named as “the nine dragons”. Overall experiences here are comfortable for senior travelers to explore the tranquil waterways, lush swamps and island maze. From boat rides through peaceful canals to visits to vibrant floating markets, this package is designed to provide only relaxation in nature. Moreover, this area has extremely distinctive cuisine from other parts of Vietnam, with healthy sweet delicacies for you to try out.

The charm of the Mekong Delta lies in floating markets.

Terraced rice fields: As one of the world's leading rice exporters, Vietnam cultivates rice on some of the most stunning terrains, creating breathtaking terraced rice fields of Sapa, Mu Cang Chai, and Hoang Su Phi. These terraced fields are also used to cultivate valuable kinds of tea leaves. Even when you travel on trains, limousines or on foot, these packages provide a perfect blend of relaxation and nature.

3. Vietnam tour amenities

Accessibility: Vietnam has a growing and increasingly accessible transportation network for everyone, including seniors. There are well-developed public transport systems like buses, metro lines and taxis in big tourist cities. And for those who want an original Vietnam experience, technology bike drivers are always happy to give you a drive. Additionally, accessibility to accommodations and many services is considered easy due to highly customer-centric tourism and undoubtedly Vietnamese hospitality.

Affordable travel: In 2024, Hoi An is ranked among the safest and most affordable destinations in the world. This is also true to other cities in Vietnam as many tourists are amazed at how high quality the services and goods are. Some of the most recommended are massage and spa which can be added into your tour bucket list.

The exclusive benefits of Vietnam tour packages: However, planning a trip to Vietnam can sometimes be complex, especially for first time travelers, and even more for senior citizens. Thus, having a local tour operator company handle most of the planning work is a less time and money consuming choice. Since they are Vietnamese based tour companies, exclusive tips and affordable package deals created from connections are their biggest strengths. Moreover, expert tour guides definitely make sure the itineraries are flexible and appropriate for your needs and preferences so every minute counts. 

Features of Senior-friendly Vietnam tour packages

Aside from the common features, tour packages for senior friends have some necessary added ones to meet the needs and preferences. Vietnam is a country with many dreamlike landscapes, a rich history and a vibrant culture, making it an ideal destination for multigenerational family trips. Moreover, the pace of life in Vietnam is both gentle and lively in its own way. Therefore, to fully experience Vietnam, proposed itineraries of tour packages are always thoughtfully designed to suit all visitors, especially the elderly and children.

Relaxed schedules: Nowadays, both domestic and foreign visitors prefer healing tours. In response, tour packages are changing itineraries including leisurely sightseeing, slower-paced activities and reserved transportation. Every destination in Vietnam has their exclusive activities, showing off scenic views and cultural discovery all year around so no need to rush. Because travel is about enjoying, relaxing and exploring destinations in the most natural way along the journey.

Leisure time: Tour operators understand your need for privacy and personal activities so there are times and customizable plans for you. With an easy-access transport network, friendly locals and tour guides, creating unique experiences here in Vietnam is no longer a problem. You can shop souvenirs, have a relaxing massage, participate in a workshop or just have a Vietnamese egg coffee.

Comfortable accommodations: Many hotels, resorts or homestays have high standards to fit the preferences of older travelers, providing full amenities and personalized services. In 3 to 5-star accommodations, some establishments offer specialized packages that include wellness activities, medical assistance as well as piping hot traditional meals. From tranquil beach resorts to scenic countryside tours, Vietnam ensures that senior travelers have a cozy accommodating experience.

Guided experiences: When exploring Vietnamese long-line culture and history, expert guides are highly preferred. In general, tour guides are generally well-regarded for their knowledge, wide relationship and hospitality. They offer deep insights and traveling tips to enrich travel experience for tourists. If you look up on TripAdvisor, Ms. Loan Do from Viet Prestige Travel is one 5-star recommended name because of her dedication, professionalism and exceptional itinerary in every tour package. 

Transportation options: To provide a safe and sound commuting among places for seniors, private door-to-door transports are pre-arranged by tour packages to avoid exhaustion from traffic congestion. Two common vehicles are limousines and private buses. For best scenic experience, trains with soft seats, air conditioning and other on-board services are often chosen.

Rickshaw tours around the Old Quarter

Special dietary considerations: Many tourists have requested Vietnam food tours in tour packages since Vietnam's diverse cuisine has nutritious yet savory dishes and often features fresh ingredients like herbs, vegetables, lean proteins and various kinds of rice. Some popular options include the famous Pho, Bun cha, Goi and Sticky rice. These dishes are known for their balance of flavors with the MSG, making them ideal for maintaining a healthy and balanced diet. 

Must destinations for Seniors in Vietnam

Based on the mentioned spots that make Vietnam a perfect destination for elders and renowned travel magazine’s recommendations, these are 5 must visited cities to make your Vietnam tour packages worth. Make sure to add one of these cities to your 2025 bucket list and customize Vietnam tour packages to your liking.

1. Hanoi

Hanoi is Vietnam's capital and the most developed city in the North because of its thousands of years of civilization. However, that does not mean Hanoi has lost its timeless and valuable ancient charm.

The Old Quarter and Hoan Kiem Lake: A city tour of the Old Quarter or so called 36 streets, surrounding Hoan Kiem lake is a nostalgic yet buzzing journey through Hanoi’s rich history. For seniors over 40, a rickshaw ride brings a gentle exploration of narrow streets, ancient architecture and charming cultural spots. Followed by a leisure stroll around Hoan Kiem Lake, reflecting on past eras while soaking in the serene atmosphere. Hidden gems in the Old Quarter and Hoan Kiem lake can only be discovered with guided tours. Other historical landmarks mentioned above are not too far from this center so it is easier to start your tour packages here.

The The Huc Bridge across Hoan Kiem Lake leads to Ngoc Son temple

French colonial architecture: Hanoi hides its European sides in Hanoi Opera House and the St. Joseph’s Cathedral in the middle of the Old Quarter. Characterized by elements such as ornate facades, tiled roofs, wrought iron balconies and intricate details, these buildings were constructed during the French colonial period in the late 19th and early 20th centuries. These structures provide a glimpse into Vietnam's colonial past, reflecting a blend of historical patterns between Western and Asian culture.

2. Hoi An

Hoi An is a tourist center in Vietnam's Middle area, renowned for its sparkling night sky filled with lanterns and their charming reflection on Huong river. The lantern-lit ancient walking streets and the night market are also parts of your tour here. But you will discover a more interesting side of Hoi An on bamboo-basket boats on Cam Thanh water. The locals will sail gently for the safety of senior visitors or you can ask to try their one-of-a-kind “swirling” sail. Thus, you can treat yourself with some refreshing coconut drinks.

Hoi An ancient streets are decorated with numerous lanterns.

3. Hue

Hue is not only a cradle of Vietnam art but also the forever place of many Kings’ tombs. Your Vietnam tour packages to Hue absolutely include the visit to seven tombs of Gia Long, Minh Mang, Khai Dinh, Tu Duc… These are located in Hue Imperial city, where you can hire your own royal outfits to take pictures in an arranged theme. For seniors who are interested in concubine’s daily entertainment, imperial garden and koi lake are the places for you. Though, the most extravagant and splendid tomb belongs to King Khai Dinh, featuring the best skill of pearl shell inlay those days with many rare relics and expensive gifts from France.

King Khai Dinh's tomb is one of the most impressive spots on Hue tour.

4. Ho Chi Minh

Travelling down to the Northern part, Ho Chi Minh appears to be the most developing city of Vietnam with Nguyen Hue walking street but historical tours will walk you through some more hidden gems besides the Reunification Palace and Cu Chi Tunnels. Like Hanoi, Notre Dame Cathedral and the Old Post Office located in Ho Chi Minh city are gorgeous French architecture. Especially Notre Dame Cathedral, honored to be the world's 19 most majestic cathedral.  To the west side of Ho Chi Minh city, Mekong Delta is the largest rice-harvesting region in Vietnam. This place is mentioned to have a dense maze of rivers, swamps and islands along with lively activities on floating markets.

5. Ha Long Bay 

Not many tourists, even Vietnamese know Ha Long actually has 3 different bays, including Ha Long Bay, Lan Ha Bay and Bai Tu Long Bay scattered across the East Sea. Thus, the safest and most worth-a-try experience is appreciating the natural beauty little by little on a cruise. Day cruises is ideal for those with limited time. These cruises typically last 4-6 hours, featuring highlights like Sail Island, Fisherman's head rock, Butterfly rock or Turtle islet. Activities often include kayaking, swimming and visiting caves. For a more leisurely experience, overnight cruises allow guests to spend nights aboard, offering the same activities as day cruises but at a higher value. These cruises often explore less-visited areas like Bai Tu Long Bay or Lan Ha Bay.

Cruise tours in Ha Long Bay.

Activities designed for Seniors

Tour packages are designed to include a variety of exciting activities at every destination you visit. Additionally, if you wish to experience more, you can absolutely customize the itinerary or make the most of your leisure tour time to explore further.

Traditional Vietnamese cooking classes: Vietnamese people have high pride for their cuisine and are willing to share it with foreign friends through culinary tours. During your time in each city, you can attend cooking classes to learn the exquisite Vietnamese art of cooking, and enjoy colorful dishes with talented local chefs. Therefore, when going back to your home country, you also bring back a part of Vietnam culture and are able to recreate memories with your family, partner and friends anytime.

Easy hiking trails and Scenic walks: To see and feel the beauty of tourist attractions in high season, walking and easy hiking tours are the best choices for visitors over 40. They are relaxing and gentle exercises Vietnamese do in early mornings to wake up your brains and keep your body healthy.

Cultural performances: Not only tourist sites, tour packages also include art performances such as Water puppetry which is really meaningful for kids, splendid shows like Ao Dai shows or Hue Festival in order to preserve traditions for future generations and promote to foreign friends.

Water puppet shows represent Vietnamese past cultures.

Craft workshop: Along with pottery experience in Bat Trang pottery village, you have a wide choice of workshops in tour packages. First is making lanterns which is recommended by most Vietnamese when your tour stops by Hoi An. You will learn the techniques of designing, shaping and decorating these beautiful lanterns, often used in cultural festivals and ceremonies with dedicated guides in your languages. Then the finished product is yours to keep. Talking about Vietnam, Non La is an exquisite item that can be found in many handmade workshops. Discover the intricate process of making Non La, the iconic conical hats of Vietnam from weaving bamboo frames to crafting the leaf layers. 

Local tips for Senior travelers

The first people that many travelers turn to when preparing for a tour are locals. Having lived there for years, they can provide the most useful and insightful knowledge, helping you have a seamless and more enjoyable journey.

Health and Safety: Tour packages are customer-centric so it is important for us to prioritize your health and safety during the itinerary. We make sure you have access to medical care anytime. Additionally, dress respectfully when visiting sacred places such as historical landmarks, temples, and pagodas to show cultural sensitivity.

Weather preparations: Vietnam has an elongated land making planning the tour packages sometimes hard. Yet there are several activities all year around for each kind of weather. With the useful help of tour guides, senior travelers do not have to worry about wasting their days or wearing uncomfortable outfits since all information is constantly provided.

Communication: The traveling mode of tour packages has the most expertized tour guides with deep knowledge, multi language understanding and dedication. And communicating experience is even better if tourists can use translation apps just in case you split from the group to have leisure time. Finally, most tour packages have phrase books and booklets to give you a brief description about the places.

Having Vietnamese dishes with Viet Prestige Travel’s tour guide.

Currency and Payment: Vietnamese are flexible with many payment methods, balancing between cash and cards. But to ensure you have access to any convenience during your tour, exchanging money in cards into VND currency cash is crucial and is suggested by all tour guides for a smoother buying process.

Top 3 Vietnam tour packages for Over 40s

Most Vietnam tour packages are designed for over 5 days to explore destinations from the North to the South in a more comprehensive and cost-effective way. At Viet Prestige Travel, we focus on providing private tours that offer great deals, with genuinely dedicated guides who enjoy assisting travelers. Below are 3 options tailored for senior travelers.

Historic Vietnam Exploration tour package: 11 days

+ Hanoi, Ninh Binh, Hoi An, Hue, Ho Chi Minh city and Mekong Delta

+ Tour highlights: Hanoi, Ninh Binh, Hoi An, Hue, Ho Chi Minh city, Mekong Delta

+ Price: depends on your customized itinerary

Vietnam Discovery: 6 days

+ Hanoi, Ha Long Bay, Da Nang, Hoi An, Cam Thanh village

+ Tour highlights: Hanoi, Quang Ninh marvel, Hoi An ancient streets

+ Price: depends on your customized itinerary

Essence of Vietnam: 8 days from North to South

+ Hanoi, Ha Long Bay, Hue, Hoi An, Ho Chi Minh city, Cu Chi tunnels

+ Tour highlights: Ha Long Bay Cruise, Historical Riches, Hoi An Heritage, Ho Chi Minh City, Cultural Diversity, Marble Mountains Magic in Da Nang

+ Price: from $741/pax

Conclusion

These are reasons why Vietnam ranks 15th in the world's most worth-visiting country, especially when talking about private and luxurious experiences for any senior.

Explore our specially tailored tour packages and immerse in the beauty, culture and healing energy of Vietnam. Check out Viet Prestige Travel website to get assistance creating memories that last a lifetime!

Need assistance with your Vietnam tour packages? Contact Viet Prestige Travel for expert guidance and personalized support to make your trip unforgettable.

For more information on Vietnam tour packages, visit our Vietnam Tour Packages page.