Vietnam Central Pilgrimage 8 Days Tour

For Expression of Interest via

thomasb@parishofbaulkhamhill.org.au

Day 1: Flight Sydney to Saigon / Ho Chi Minh City with Vietnam Airlines in the morning -

Check in in hotel and a free evening to relax

Day 2: Our journey begins at around 8.00-8.30 AM, with a pick-up from your hotel in Saigon.

Our day begins at Notre Dame Cathedral (Basilica of Our Lady of The Immaculate Conception), one of the most iconic landmarks of Ho Chi Minh City. This magnificent cathedral showcases breathtaking French colonial architecture, stained glass windows, and twin bell towers standing at 58 meters. A statue of the Virgin Mary graces the front courtyard, making it a significant pilgrimage site for Catholics.

Next, we visit Huyen Sy Church (Saint Philip Apostolic Church), one of the oldest and largest churches in Saigon. Constructed in 1902, this neo-Gothic church is named after Huyen Sy, one of the city’s most influential Catholic benefactors. Admire the Italian marble altar, elegant bell towers, and tranquil gardens featuring a statue of the Blessed Virgin Mary.

Continuing on, we will visit Tan Dinh Church (The Pink Church), famous for its pastel pink façade. This architectural gem, blending Gothic and Romanesque styles, is not only a place of worship but also a must-visit attraction for its stunning design and historical importance.

After a break for lunch, we head to Ky Dong Church, also known as the Church of the Redemptorist Saigon or the Shrine of Our Lady of Perpetual Help. This church is an important Catholic centre in Saigon, known for its serene ambiance and solemn atmosphere. The on-site Catholic bookstore, Nha Sach Duc Me, offers a vast collection of religious books, statues, and souvenirs for visitors to explore.

Our journey then takes us to Cha Tam Church, located in Chinatown, also known as St. Francis Xavier Church, is a unique blend of European and Asian architecture. Built in 1900, it serves as a cultural and historical landmark, reflecting the Catholic heritage of Vietnamese Chinese communities.

If time permits, experience the bustling energy of Ben Thanh Market, one of the oldest and most famous markets in Ho Chi Minh City. Explore its vibrant stalls, offering everything from local street food to handcrafted souvenirs, making it the perfect spot to soak in the city’s dynamic culture.

We conclude our Saigon Catholic Church Tour with a comfortable drop-off at our hotel, taking with us unforgettable memories and a deeper appreciation of Saigon’s Catholic heritage.

DAY 3: DA NANG AIRPORT TO HUE

Your private guide will meet you outside of the arrival hall at Da Nang International Airport.

Following National Highway 1 north to Hue city is around 2 to 3 hours’ drive. Depending on time of day (and time available) we will either take the scenic drive over the Hai Van Mountain Pass or if arrival is late in the day, we’ll drive the direct route via the Hai Van Tunnel.

On arrival in Hue, check into your hotel and the remainder of your day is free and easy.

Meals: Lunch                   Accommodation: Hue Hotel

DAY 4: OUR LADY OF LAVANG –THIEN AN MONASTERY – DONG BA MARKET

Fuel up for a day of exploration with a delicious breakfast at your hotel.

After that, take the Journey North! We’ll embark on a scenic drive to Our Lady of La Vang, a prominent pilgrimage site not only for Vietnamese but also for everyone over the world. Here, you’ll have ample time for prayer and reflection, soaking in the spiritual significance of this revered location.

Return to Hue city for a delightful and satisfying lunch. This is a great opportunity to recharge and discuss your experiences at La Vang.

In the afternoon, Immerse yourself in tranquillity at Thien An Monastery. Nestled amidst a breathtaking pine forest in Thuy Bang, this serene haven boasts an intimate atmosphere and breathtaking natural beauty. Explore the grounds, find a quiet corner for meditation, or simply appreciate the peaceful environment.

Then, we will dive into the vibrant local scene at Dong Ba Market! As Hue’s oldest market, Dong Ba offers an unforgettable cultural experience. Explore the labyrinthine aisles brimming with an array of goods, from fresh produce and local crafts to clothing and delicious street food.

Enjoying a cup of coffee at a local café in Dong Ba Market is a must for travellers. Amidst the vibrant hustle of Hue’s iconic market, you’ll savour rich, aromatic coffee while soaking in the authentic atmosphere. It’s the perfect spot to relax, people-watch, and experience the essence of Vietnam.

Return to your hotel, brimming with memories and unique finds from Dong Ba Market. This jam-packed day offers a perfect blend of spiritual exploration, cultural immersion, and a touch of local shopping.

Meals: Breakfast, Lunch - Accommodation: Hue Hotel

DAY 5: HUE ANCIENT CAPITAL WITH CHURCHES

After breakfast at the hotel, we will spend time to visit Phu Cam Cathedral, which is the cathedral of the Archdiocese of Hue, and is one of the largest, the most famous and the oldest church in Hue. The cathedral was built on a hill where an orange plantation once stood. Construction started on the property in 1963 with further additions in 2000, it is built in the style of Modern Architecture designed by architect Ngo Viet Thu.

Then pay your respects at Our Lady of Perpetual Help Church, another architectural treasure of Hue. Discover its significance within the Catholic community and appreciate its artistic beauty.

After lunch, we will visit Maries’ handicraft shop, where you will see a wide variety of beautiful handmade products made from Lepironia grass (a kind of sedge).

Then, we will take a short traditional cyclo to the Citadel, which is located on the North bank of Huong River (Perfume River), inside Hue city.

It is a huge complex covering an area of 520 ha and comprising three circles of ramparts, Kinh Thanh Hue (Hue Capital Citadel), Hoang Thanh (Royal Citadel) and Tu Cam Thanh (Forbidden Citadel). The rule of the last Vietnamese Emperor lasted until the mid-1900s. At the time, the Purple Forbidden City had many buildings and hundreds of rooms. It suffered from termite and cyclone damage but was still very impressive. Many bullet holes left over from the war can also be observed on the stone walls.

The rest of the evening is yours to explore at your own pace.

Meals: Breakfast, Lunch          Accommodation: Hue Hotel

DAY 6: HUE CITY – BANA HILLS – HOI AN TOWN

Following National Highway 1 south to Hoi An is around 4 hours’ drive. We’ll stop by Lang Co Beach, followed by a scenic drive over the stunning Hai Van Mountain Pass. This is the highest pass in Vietnam (500m above sea level). The rugged pass is the final section of the Truong Son Range stretching to the sea.

Hai Van is translated “Sea Clouds”, since the peak of the mountain is in the clouds while its foot is close to the sea. The views over Lang Co Bay and Da Nang are stunning. We’ll make stops along the way for photos and refreshments as required.

Passing by Da Nang we head to the Ba Na Hills. This hill resort, inherited from the French, has refreshingly cool weather and gorgeous countryside views.

Until WWII, the French were carried up the last 20km of rough mountain road by sedan chair, but now a 5.7km (the world’s longest) cable car system has opened up access. The ride involves a rise of almost 1400m, a truly spectacular trip over dense jungle and waterfalls.

Folklore says that when the French arrived in this region, they saw a lot of bananas and gradually this morphed to Ba Na!

Walk the Golden Bridge…

This amazing construction has attracted visitors worldwide, eager to see a novel piece of architecture famed for its unusual design.

The pedestrian walkway, sits at over 1,000 meters (3,280 feet) above sea level and extends over the treetops from the edge of a leafy cliff face, offering visitors uninterrupted views of the majestic landscape beneath.

The bridge was designed to evoke the image of the ‘giant hands of God’, pulling a strip of gold out of the and to connect the cable car station with the gardens and to provide an amazing scenic overlook.

We’ll remain flexible as to the walks and sites visited.

Lunch is included, following which we’ll continue to Hoi An to arrive by around mid to late afternoon. Check in hotel and relax at your leisure.

Meals: Breakfast, Lunch - Accommodation: Hoi An Hotel

DAY 7: OUR LADY OF TRA KIEU – HOI AN ANCIENT TOWN – “HOI AN MEMORIES” SHOW

In the morning, we will visit Our Lady of Tra Kieu, which is the holy mountain church where pilgrimages gather to pray and memorize the glory and the victory that Our Lady who gave to the faithfuls when they were in the war of self-defence against the Can Vuong Movement in 1885.

In the afternoon, we take the Hoi An walking tour. Located on the banks of the poetic Thu Bon River, Hoi An ancient town is an Eastern oriental classic captivation. Between the 17th and 19th centuries, Hoi An was a prosperous trading port, with a number of foreign occupations. These included the Japanese and Chinese, and western (Dutch and Spanish) during the 16th and 17th centuries.

Today, this UNESCO World Heritage listed ancient town is home to well-preserved buildings, pedestrianized streets, a quaint riverside and unique cuisines. The narrow lanes are ideal for 3 hours walking tour to give you a glimpse of an ancient town with its illustrious past. You will visit the Japanese Bridge, the Assembly Hall of Chinese, an old merchant’s house – Tan Ky beautiful town of all lanterns by night.

In the evening, immerse yourself in a spectacular cultural experience with the “Hoi An Memories” Show. This breathtaking outdoor performance brings the heroic and romantic history of Hoi An to life, taking you on a journey through its rich heritage and vibrant identity. Featuring over 500 talented dancers and actors, stunning props, and mesmerizing stage effects, the show captivates with its impressive choreography and state-of-the-art sound and lighting. Set on a grand 25,000-square-meter stage, “Hoi An Memories” promises an unforgettable evening that will leave you in awe of Hoi An’s timeless beauty.

Meals: Breakfast, Lunch           Accommodation: Hoi An Hotel

DAY 8: HOI AN/DANANG DEPARTURE

Free at leisure until transferring to airport for your flight home - End of your Vietnam Catholic Tour – Opportunity to explore Vietnam on your own