Highlights of Vietnam

Day 1: Arrive in Hanoi

Arrive in Hanoi and transfer to your hotel. No meals or activities included today. Overnight Oriental Jade Hotel or similar. 

Hanoi

Hanoi, the capital city of Vietnam, is a captivating blend of history, culture, and vibrant urban life. Nestled in the northern part of the country along the banks of the Red River, Hanoi carries a rich heritage shaped by centuries of dynastic rule, French colonial influence, and the struggles of the Vietnamese people. The city's heart lies in the atmospheric Old Quarter, a maze of narrow streets brimming with markets, traditional shops, and temples. Iconic landmarks, including the Ho Chi Minh Mausoleum and the Temple of Literature, stand as testaments to Hanoi's historical significance. The city's lakes, such as Hoan Kiem Lake, offer serene retreats amidst the urban hustle. Hanoi is a culinary haven, with its street food scene showcasing diverse flavours that delight the senses. This city encapsulates the spirit of Vietnam, seamlessly blending tradition with the dynamism of modern life. 

Day 2: Hanoi – Explore Hanoi like a local

This morning it’s an early start as you head to Hoan Kiem Lake to join groups of local people practicing tai chi and aerobics – a regular morning routine! After visiting Ngoc Son Temple in the middle of the lake, head to a traditional café where you can try Vietnam’s local iced coffee, ca phe sua da, and if you’re feeling adventurous – the ‘egg coffee’. Continue to a street food stall for a delicious banh mi – a typical baguette sandwich filled in with a variety of ingredients. We then head to Hanoi’s Old Quarter where you will see some of the French colonial architecture of former times, including St. Joseph’s Cathedral – a French gothic building constructed in 1886. Next, walk to the Hoa Lo Prison, where Vietnamese as well as American and French prisoners of war were once held. Our last stop before lunch is Huu Tiep Lake, better known as ‘B-52 lake’, where the wreckage of a US B-5 bomber can still be seen. For lunch enjoy Hanoi’s traditional bun cha noodle dish, made with grilled pork and rice noodles. This afternoon, we visit the Temple of Literature built in 1076, where Vietnam’s first university was established to educate Vietnam's royalty, mandarins and members of the elite – a fascinating glimpse into the country’s past.  Last but not least, head to a street where the tracks of Hanoi’s railway pass only metres from the entrance to homes. You can walk along the tracks and take some beautiful photos of the city. The day finishes with a refreshing glass of draught beer at a local bia hoi spot – a chance to mingle with the locals. Overnight at Oriental Jade Hotel or similar (BL) 

Note: During the tour, you will be trying different street foods, so we recommend you forgot breakfast at your hotel.  

Day 3: Hanoi – Ninh Binh

After breakfast head towards Trang An, a scenic area near Ninh Binh, where you will take a cruise up a river that wends its way through karst mountains surrounded by rice fields. Trang An is also dubbed ‘Inland Ha Long Bay’, since much of the topography is a landscape of soaring karst mountains, which some consider to be even more spectacular than Ha Long Bay itself. Lunch will take place in a local restaurant and in the afternoon, you will start a bike ride to Hoa Lu, the former capital of Vietnam in the 10th and 11th centuries when Vietnam was under the Dinh and Le dynasties. Before returning to Hanoi, you will explore some of the monuments dedicated to several emperors living during these dynasties. You will then be transferred to your resort. Overnight at Aravinda Resort or similar (BL) 

Day 4: Hanoi – Ha Long Bay - Lan Ha Bay

This morning, you will depart for Halong. Join your Halong Bay cruise around noon, where you depart and head for Lan Ha Bay after a delicious lunch. Enjoy kayaking and swimming at the bay, or simply relax on the luxury junk boat. Enjoy the afternoon at leisure before dinner, then relax on board in the evening, or try your hand at squid fishing. Overnight on Mon Cheri cruise (BLD) 

Halong Bay

Halong Bay is a UNESCO World Heritage Site renowned for its breathtaking natural beauty. The bay is characterized by emerald waters and thousands of towering limestone karsts topped with lush vegetation, creating a surreal and picturesque seascape. These karsts, some of which are hollow with enormous caves, form a unique geological formation. Halong Bay is dotted with small fishing villages and floating fishing communities, adding to its cultural appeal. Visitors often explore the bay on cruises, allowing them to appreciate the stunning scenery, visit caves, and engage in activities like kayaking. The bay's ethereal beauty and cultural significance make it one of Vietnam's most iconic and visited destinations. 

Day 5: Lan Ha Bay – Hanoi – Danang – Hoi An

For early risers you can start the day with some Tai Chi before enjoying the sunrise. Breakfast is served whilst cruising back towards the jetty. Before leaving Halong, we visit Cat Ba World Biosphere and Trung Trang – one of the most impressive caves in Cat Ba island. The limestone cave has thousands of talactites in various shapes, offering geological values with a typical cave ecosystem. Arrive back at the main jetty after lunch where you will be met and transferred to the airport for your flight to Danang. On arrival transfer to your hotel in Hoi An. Spend the evening at leisure. Overnight La Siesta Hoi An or similar (B) 

Hoi An

Hoi An, located on the central coast of Vietnam, is a charming and well-preserved ancient town that reflects a harmonious blend of various cultures and architectural influences. This UNESCO World Heritage Site is renowned for its exceptionally well-preserved architecture, with colourful historic buildings lining narrow, winding streets. The town served as a prominent trading port from the 15th to the 19th century, and its architecture is a mix of Vietnamese, Chinese, Japanese, and European styles. Hoi An is famous for its lantern-lit evenings, adding a magical ambiance to the town. Beyond its architectural beauty, Hoi An is celebrated for its vibrant street markets, delectable local cuisine, and traditional crafts. The Thu Bon River flows through the town, offering scenic boat rides and glimpses of the local way of life. Hoi An is a living museum, offering visitors a glimpse into its rich history and cultural heritage. 

Day 6: Hoi An

The morning is at leisure. This afternoon, around 3pm, meet your guide for a walking tour through Hoi An’s Old Town, with its hundreds of historic houses, congregation halls, pagodas and other notable structures. Isit the Japanese Covered Bridge, the Pottery Museum, 200-year-old Tan Ky House, Chua Ong Pagoda and the local market. You will also have the opportunity to paint your own traditional mask – a memorable souvenir to take home with you. While you are walking, you can try some of the local street food, including, Vietnamese coffee; the best banh my in Vietnam; banh bot lọc, clear shrimp and pork dumplings; banh it, sticky rice dumplings; bánh khọt, savory coconut pancake; balut egg; cao lau noodles; and sliced pork wrapped with rice paper, among others. Overnight at La Siesta Hoi An or similar (B) 

Day 7: Hoi An – Cooking Class

After breakfast head to Hoi An’s colourful central market. Here, you will have the opportunity to interact with local stallholders and learn more about the ingredients typically used in Central Vietnam cuisine, some of which you will be using for your cooking class later. After the market cycle on to Tra Que Vegetable Village. Take a short stroll around the vegetable gardens and learn more about farming life in Hoi An. Next, meet your chef and work with him, learning traditional ways of preparing and cooking Vietnamese food. You will be cooking many local delicacies such as tam huu - Hoi An spring rolls and banh xeo, a Vietnamese pancake. When the cooking class is finished, you will be transferred back to your hotel. Overnight at La Siesta Hoi An or similar (BL) 

Day 8: Hoi An - Hue

This morning travel to Hue via the scenic Hai Van pass. Overnight at Eldora Hotel or similar (B) 

Hue

Hue, located in central Vietnam, is a city steeped in imperial history and cultural richness. As the former capital of the Nguyen Dynasty, it boasts a wealth of historical monuments, including the imposing Imperial City, a UNESCO World Heritage Site. The city is adorned with ancient temples, pagodas, and royal tombs set against a backdrop of the Perfume River. The Perfume River, aptly named for the fragrant flowers that fall into its waters, adds to the city's picturesque setting. Hue's cuisine, known for its royal origins, offers a delightful culinary experience. The city provides a captivating glimpse into Vietnam's imperial past, with its well-preserved architectural wonders and serene landscapes, making it a compelling destination for history enthusiasts and cultural explorers alike. 

Day 9: Hue

Today visit the Purple Forbidden City, constructed by Emperor Gia Long in the early 19th century. Located in the Citadel of Hue’s Imperial City, it was badly damaged during the Tet Offensive of 1968. Hue was established as the capital of unified Vietnam in 1802, and was not only the political, but also the cultural and religious centre of Vietnam under the Nguyen dynasty until 1945. After exploring the Purple Forbidden City, you will stop for lunch at a local restaurant. Following lunch, you board a dragon boat for a pleasant boat trip down the Perfume River to visit the famous Thien Mu Pagoda. You then visit the tombs of emperors Tu Duc and Khai Dinh. Tu Duc, who was Vietnam's fourth emperor is said to have had 104 concubines.  The tomb of Khai Dinh, who was Vietnam’s 12th emperor, represents a fusion of traditional Vietnamese style and modern influences. It is made almost entirely of concrete and includes many European architectural details. Overnight at Eldora Hotel or similar (BL) 

Day 10: Hue – Ho Chi Minh

Transfer to the airport for your flight to Ho Chi Minh City. On arrival you will be met and transferred to your hotel. Before arriving at your hotel, stop to visit the famous Cu Chi Tunnels. The tunnels are 75 km northwest of Ho Chi Minh City, in an area that played an important role during Vietnam's wars for independence and reunification. More than 200 km of tunnels were dug here by the Vietnamese guerrillas and are often the highlight of South Vietnam touring. You will be able to explore the bedrooms, meeting rooms, air-raid shelters, smokeless kitchens, and experience life underground in this extraordinary tunnel complex. After visiting the tunnels, you will be taken to your hotel, and the rest of the day is at leisure. Overnight at Majestic Hotel or similar (B) 

Ho Chi Minh City

Ho Chi Minh City, formerly known as Saigon, is the bustling economic and cultural hub of Vietnam, situated in the southern part of the country. This dynamic metropolis is a vibrant tapestry of modernity and tradition, with soaring skyscrapers standing alongside French colonial architecture and bustling markets. Named after the revolutionary leader Ho Chi Minh, the city is a testament to Vietnam's rapid development. A mecca for shopping, dining, and entertainment, Ho Chi Minh City offers a lively street life and a wealth of attractions, including the historic Notre-Dame Cathedral Basilica of Saigon and the War Remnants Museum, which chronicles the country's tumultuous past. The city's energy, diverse culinary scene, and rich history make it a captivating destination that reflects the dynamism of contemporary Vietnam.

Day 11: Ho Chi Minh

This morning head out early for an iced coffee at the Bird Café in the beautifully manicured gardens of Tao Dan Park. The café is a popular spot for many locals who come to take in the morning air, show off their prize birds, and chat with friends over a freshly brewed cup of Vietnamese coffee. After a spot of breakfast at a restaurant where you can try pho, the national dish, you navigate the back alleyways and street vendors to Cho Lon, the heart of Saigon’s Chinatown. Cho Lon is like no other district in Saigon, it is a hive of activity that holds your attention from the moment you arrive. A district with a long and colourful history, we take you to see a secret bunker and even the former Revolutionary Headquarters, hidden away in plain sight. At this point, you will be getting hot and hungry, so you make your way to a favourite lunchtime watering hole. Getting there is also an adventure in itself as it involves finding your way to an obscure apartment block where you climb to the roof for a delightful lunch overlooking the city rooftops. Lunch is followed by a walk through central Saigon to work off the excess. A bit further, you come across The Café Apartment, an old nine-story apartment building that residents have converted into funky, stylish coffee shops and boutiques. At The Café Apartment, there is a perfect place to relax after a long day of exploring, it is a great way to end the tour. Overnight at Majestic Hotel or similar (BL)

Day 12: Mekong Delta

This morning we depart for Ben Tre (approx. 2.5 hours) in the heart of the Mekong Delta. On arrival stop at the vibrant My Long market where you will witness the daily activities of locals as they sort and sell a myriad of fresh fish and local produce and see the specialty rice paper cake being made. Board your boat as you cruise the waterways, through coconut jungles with a canopy of palm trees and along small canals. Stop at a local farmers house to observe how coconut jam is skillfully crafted. Here, you'll enjoy the flavors of tea and jam while enjoying the charming ambiance. Next a tuktuk ride will take you through local villages where you will stop to see the art of coconut processing in a local workshop. You'll also have the privilege of connecting with local villagers who will regale you with tales of the community's way of life. Enjoy a journey on a wooden rowboat as you gently glide along the shaded waters of some small canals. The picturesque scenery will provide ample opportunities to capture truly mesmerizing photographs. Lunchtime beckons, and you'll be treated to a feast of local specialties at a charming riverside restaurant. Here, you can unwind and savor the culinary delights in a serene setting. Following your meal, your boat journey will lead you back towards Ben Tre where you'll make a stop at a traditional brick kiln. Here you will gain an insight into the intricate art of handcrafting bricks and experience more of the local industry. After another short cruise you will be met by your driver for the trip back to Ho Chi Minh city. Overnight at Majestic Hotel, Deluxe Pool view room (BL)

Day 13: Ho Chi Minh Departure

Today, you will have a free day until be transferred to airport for flight home. (B)