A captivating 12-day Vietnamese odyssey awaits, transporting you from Hanoi’s ancient heart to Ho Chi Minh City’s vibrant pulse. Immerse yourself in a rich tapestry of cultural experiences, savoring world-class Vietnamese cuisine and exploring UNESCO World Heritage sites. Tranquil moments of relaxation are seamlessly interwoven with exhilarating explorations, whether cruising through Lan Ha Bay’s breathtaking landscapes, cycling past ancient temples, or indulging in the vibrant energy of street food markets.
Tour Highlight
- Experience tailor-made fashion in Hoi An before participating in a garden-to-table culinary adventure with a local chef.
- Enjoy authentic Vietnamese coffee while uncovering Ho Chi Minh City’s rich history and indulging in its vibrant street food scene.
- Relish the energetic atmosphere of Hanoi’s Old Quarter from a tiny sidewalk stool, watching the city’s organized chaos unfold.
- Kayak through the serene waters of Lan Ha Bay, marveling at the towering limestone karsts.
- Cycle through Ninh Binh’s ancient temples and lush countryside, a UNESCO World Heritage Site.
- Support sustainable travel by learning about Save Vietnam’s Wildlife conservation efforts.
Tour Itinerary
DAY 1: ARRIVAL IN HANOI
Upon arrival in Hanoi, a welcome meeting at 6 PM is scheduled, preceded by independent exploration of the city’s energetic streets. Hanoi’s nocturnal allure unfolds; discover its hidden cocktail bars or sample the refreshing local bia hoi at a roadside stall.
Accommodation:
- Hotel (1 night)
Meals:
- None
Optional Activities:
- Hanoi Street Food Experience Urban Adventure – USD 29
DAY 2: HANOI EXPLORATION
A day of self-guided discovery in Hanoi beckons. Hoan Kiem Lake’s serene beauty, the Temple of Literature’s historical significance, and the Ho Chi Minh Mausoleum’s solemn presence await your exploration. Dining options include KOTO, a commendable social enterprise supporting underprivileged youth.
Accommodation:
- Hotel (1 night)
Meals:
- None
Optional Activities:
- Temple of Literature – VND 70,000
- Ho Chi Minh Complex – VND 80,000
DAY 3: LAN HA BAY CRUISE – CAT BA ISLAND
A journey to Cat Ba Island is undertaken via bus and ferry. A scenic boat tour of Lan Ha Bay is embarked upon, accompanied by a delectable seafood lunch. The afternoon unfolds with kayaking through crystalline waters and exploring limestone caves, culminating in a mesmerizing sunset spectacle.
Accommodation:
- Hotel (1 night)
Meals:
- Lunch
Included Activities:
- Lan Ha Bay boat trip
- Kayaking excursion
DAY 4: NINH BINH – CYCLING TOUR
A return to the mainland precedes travel to Ninh Binh, a former imperial capital. Exploration of the ancient citadel is facilitated by bicycle, alongside visits to the 17th-century temples dedicated to King Dinh and King Le.
Accommodation:
- Lodge (1 night)
Meals:
- None
Included Activities:
- Hoa Lu Temple visit
- Ninh Binh cycling tour
DAY 5: NINH BINH FREE DAY – OVERNIGHT TRAIN TO HUE
A day of leisure in Ninh Binh is offered. Hike to Mua Cave for panoramic views or embark on a boat tour through the stunning Trang An grottoes. An overnight train to Hue is boarded in the evening.
Accommodation:
- Overnight train (1 night)
Meals:
- None
Optional Activities:
- Mua Cave Hike – USD 12
- Trang An Boat Tour – USD 21
DAY 6: HUE – IMPERIAL CITY & HOME-COOKED DINNER
Hue, another former imperial capital, welcomes you. A day dedicated to exploring the citadel, visiting Thien Mu Pagoda, or cycling to Emperor Tu Duc’s tomb is offered. A home-cooked meal with a local family awaits in the evening.
Accommodation:
- Hotel (1 night)
Meals:
- Dinner
Included Activities:
- Home-cooked dinner experience
Optional Activities:
- Perfume River Cruise & Thien Mu Pagoda – VND 220,000
DAY 7: HOI AN – WALKING TOUR
Travel to Hoi An, where a guided walking tour of the ancient town awaits. Historic merchant houses, the Japanese Covered Bridge, and bustling markets are explored.
Accommodation:
- Hotel (1 night)
Meals:
- None
Included Activities:
- Hoi An Old Town walking tour
Optional Activities:
- Food Adventure Urban Experience – USD 39
DAY 8: HOI AN – GARDEN-TO-TABLE EXPERIENCE
A cycling trip to Tra Que Vegetable Village is undertaken. Fresh ingredients are gathered for a cooking class led by a local chef. A farm-to-table lunch follows, with the remainder of the day dedicated to exploring Hoi An.
Accommodation:
- Hotel (1 night)
Meals:
- Lunch
Included Activities:
- Garden-to-table cooking experience
Optional Activities:
- Private My Son Discovery – USD 73
DAY 9: QUY NHON – COASTAL CITY EXPLORATION
A scenic drive to Quy Nhon, a hidden gem on Vietnam’s central coast, is enjoyed. Historical towers can be explored, a hike to Eo Gio for panoramic ocean views undertaken, or the fresh seafood at a local market sampled.
Accommodation:
- Hotel (1 night)
Meals:
- None
Optional Activities:
- Eo Gio Hike – VND 22,000
- Canh Tien Tower – VND 15,000
DAY 10: QUY NHON – FREE DAY & OVERNIGHT TRAIN
A day of relaxation on Quy Nhon’s pristine beaches or an excursion to Hon Kho Island is provided. An overnight train to Ho Chi Minh City is boarded in the evening.
Accommodation:
- Overnight train (1 night)
Meals:
- None
DAY 11: HO CHI MINH CITY – LOCAL MARKET & COFFEE EXPERIENCE
Ho Chi Minh City’s arrival is followed by a visit to a bustling local market. An immersion into Vietnamese coffee culture, accompanied by a strong brew, awaits. The afternoon is devoted to exploring historical landmarks, including the War Remnants Museum and Notre Dame Cathedral.
Accommodation:
- Hotel (1 night)
Meals:
- None
Included Activities:
- Coffee & market experience
Optional Activities:
- Cu Chi Tunnels Tour – USD 20
DAY 12: HO CHI MINH CITY – DEPARTURE
The journey concludes. If time permits, Ben Thanh Market can be explored or a half-day Mekong Delta tour undertaken before departure. Safe travels are wished.
Meals:
- None
Optional Activities:
- Half-day Mekong Delta Tour – USD 35
