Upon arrival at Hanoi's Noi Bai International Airport you will be welcomed by your guide holding a sign with your name on it. He will escort you to your hotel (approx. 1-hour drive). Check in time is after 2 PM.

If time permits, in the late afternoon, down time with a one hour cyclo ride around the Old Quarter in the heart of Hanoi. A cyclo is a bicycle cab with a roof, pedaled by a driver who sits behind you, allowing you to immerse yourself in an old atmosphere of an area that perfectly captures the timelessness and nostalgia of Vietnam. The Old Quarter consists of 36 old streets named after the kind of goods or crafts that used to be made or sold on those streets, such as Hang Dao (Silk Street), Hang Bac (Silver Street), Hang Duong (Sugar Street), and Hang Muoi (Salt Street). After the cyclo ride, walk around Hoan Kiem lake and visit Thanh Ha wet market to have a look at the local life.  Conclude your walk over a cup of delicious Vietnamese egg coffee at a hidden café nestled inside a tiny alley. Hot café Trung, with its rich taste of coffee, creamy egg yolk, and sweet condensed milk, will leave you smiling. 

Back to your hotel and free at leisure.

Meal: N/A

Overnight at hotel

In the morning, visit the Museum of Ethnology which offers a fascinating introduction to Vietnam’s cultural diversity, showcasing the traditions, lifestyles, and heritage of the country’s 54 recognized ethnic groups. Through rich collections of artifacts, photographs, and immersive outdoor displays, the museum provides deep insight into how communities across Vietnam have lived, worked, and expressed their identities for generations. Afterwards, visit Tran Quoc Pagoda, a 6th-century pagoda peacefully set on West Lake, and revered for its elegant architecture, centuries-old history, and spiritual significance. Continue to the Temple of Literature, Vietnam's first university established within the temple in 1076 to educate the mandarin class. The university functioned for more than 700 years, from 1076 to 1779 during which a good number of 2,313 doctors graduated. 

From now on, you will eat what appealed to Anthony Bourdain, visit the sites where he was and meet the people he was impressed with. Time for an authentic lunch at the rustic restaurant where Bourdain broke bread with Barack Obama — a meal that includes bun cha, a Hanoian noodle specialty. Then, stroll down the streets and stop at Giang Café that was founded by Mr. Nguyen Giang in 1946, when he was working as a bartender for the famous five-star Sofitel Legend Metropole Hanoi hotel.

After lunch, you will have a chance to meet a puppet master whose family has been bringing stories alive with inanimate objects for 7 generations. The tour will help you to gain a deep insight into this ancient entertainment and take a look behind the scenes of one of Vietnam’s most beloved art forms. 

Your guide will lead you to Mr. Liem’s workshop, tucked away at the end of a winding, zigzag alley that offers a fascinating glimpse into everyday life in this part of the city. Upon arrival, meet your hosts and receive an introduction to the art of traditional water puppetry. Explore the workshop filled with beautifully hand-crafted puppets and learn about the techniques behind their creation.

Next, enjoy an intimate half-hour water puppet performance in a miniature theater inside Mr. Liem’s home. As the stories unfold, discover the folklore and legends portrayed, along with the cultural significance of this unique art form. The close setting creates a truly personal and immersive experience.

After the show, you’ll have the opportunity to try handling the puppets yourself, adding a playful and memorable touch to the visit. Following this insightful encounter with one of Vietnam’s most iconic performing arts, bid farewell to your host and return to your hotel.

Before heading back to your hotel, round off the experience with a handcrafted cocktail at a hidden bar overlooking the beautiful St. Joseph’s Cathedral. One of Hanoi’s most iconic landmarks, the cathedral is a striking example of French Gothic architecture, rich in history and offering a lovely backdrop to unwind and reflect on the city’s past.

Meal: Breakfast, simple lunch (Bun Cha)

Overnight at hotel 

After breakfast, leave Hanoi and drive to Sapa (approx. 5.5 hour drive). Arrive in Sapa in the afternoon. Transfer to your hotel, check in and free at leisure.

Meal: Breakfast

Overnight at hotel

At 9h, meet your local guide at your hotel. A 30 minute drive takes you to Silver Waterfall (best seen in the rainy season from May to November), take a short walk to the waterfall where great views are offered of the surrounding mountains and lush forests of the Hoang Lien National Park. Along the way your guide will explain about this special part of Sa Pa, where many tree species are grown such as plum and peach trees. Continue by car 10 minutes up to Heaven's Gate, from here you can see Fansipan mountain ‘the roof of Indochina’ at the height of 3143 meters above sea level. Continue to O Quy Ho pass, a scenic mountain pass that offers stunning views of the surrounding landscapes. Then transfer back to Sapa.

In the afternoon, transfer to Muong Hoa valley. Visit the Black H’mong village of Lao Chai, where you will experience the daily life of the community. Afterwards, walk from Lao Chai to Ta Van village, where the Dzay hill tribes live. The village is surrounded by terraced rice fields that offer a breathtaking panorama, especially during the growing season when they are lush green.

Back to your hotel in the late afternoon.

Meal: Breakfast

Overnight at hotel 

A full-day tour to Bac Ha Ethnic Market offers a fascinating journey into the cultural heart of northern Vietnam’s highlands. Early in the morning, depart for Bac Ha, traveling through dramatic mountain landscapes, terraced fields, and remote villages inhabited by colorful ethnic minority communities.

Upon arrival, explore Bac Ha Market, one of the largest and most vibrant ethnic markets in the region. Held weekly on Sunday, the market brings together H’Mong, Dao, Tay, and other ethnic groups dressed in traditional costumes, gathering to trade livestock, handicrafts, textiles, local produce, and everyday goods. Wander through the bustling stalls, observe age-old trading traditions, and enjoy the lively atmosphere, where the market is as much a social gathering as a place of commerce.

After visiting the market, continue to a nearby village to gain deeper insight into rural life. Walk through traditional homes, learn about local customs, and see daily activities such as weaving, farming, or corn wine making. Enjoy a simple local lunch before beginning the scenic journey back, bringing the day to a close with lasting memories of Bac Ha’s rich cultural heritage and authentic highland life.

Back to Sapa in the afternoon. Free at leisure. 

Meal: Breakfast, lunch

Overnight at hotel 

Morning leave Sapa and transfer back to Hanoi. Arrive in Hanoi in the afternoon. Check in hotel (after 2 PM) and free at leisure.

There's no better way to immerse yourself in the local culture than by experiencing it firsthand. Get an up-close and personal look by visiting a local family, delving into their daily life, and sharing their meals. This evening, you have the opportunity to be warmly welcomed by a three-generation Hanoian family residing in the Southwest part of the city. Here, the lifestyle is a blend of tradition and modernity, where bustling streets intersect with narrow lanes.

After a brief introduction to the family, you'll be treated to a special dinner featuring traditional Vietnamese cuisine. As you enjoy the meal, your host will share insights about the local culture, culinary traditions, and their everyday life. Following the meal, you'll be invited to the living room for desserts and tea. The host will continue the conversation, delving into topics about their family and the enduring aspects of traditional culture.

Indulging in a meal with distinct dishes, all within the cozy ambiance of this hospitable, three-generation family, promises an enriching experience. It's a great opportunity for those with a fondness for Vietnam, its vibrant culture, and its delectable cuisine.

Meal: Breakfast, dinner 

Overnight at hotel 

After breakfast, drive to Ninh Binh, a hidden gem in the North of Vietnam.

Gliding along the gentle Ngo Dong River in a traditional sampan, you pass between towering limestone karsts rising from emerald rice fields, earning Tam Coc its nickname as “Halong Bay on land.” The route takes you through three natural caves, where stalactites hang low above the water, before emerging into wide, sunlit valleys. Rowed by local boatwomen using both hands and feet, the experience offers a serene glimpse of rural life and unforgettable photo opportunities in the heart of Ninh Binh.

Next, hop on an electric bike to explore the vibrant rural culture of the region in a relaxed and eco-friendly way. The journey begins near the iconic Hang Mua viewpoint, where sweeping panoramic views of the surrounding countryside set the tone, before continuing to key landmarks such as the ancient Bich Dong Pagoda. Along the way, ride through quiet villages and scenic backroads, offering an intimate glimpse into traditional rural life and the area’s enduring heritage.

The itinerary is thoughtfully designed to deepen cultural immersion, with stops at Coi Khe Village and along hidden countryside paths before reaching Den Voi Temple. Here, enjoy a unique experience of tea leaf picking followed by a riverside tea ceremony, adding a serene and authentic touch to the journey.

The tour concludes with visits to Dam Khe Trong Village and a local family’s home, providing meaningful connections with the community. Led by experienced guides and supported by high-quality electric bikes, this experience ensures both comfort and sustainability while revealing the timeless charm of the countryside.

Check in your hotel in Tam Coc in the late afternoon. 

Meal: Breakfast

Overnight at hotel

After breakfast, depart Ninh Binh for a four-hour drive to Ha Long Bay. Arrive at the jetty in Ha Long City around noon and proceed with the check-in formalities. You will be welcomed on board, and lunch will be served as the boat begins cruising into the heart of the bay. In the afternoon, enjoy sightseeing and onboard activities according to your boat’s itinerary, or simply relax and take in the magnificent surroundings. Toward the end of the day, the boat will anchor for the night among the impressive karst formations. Dinner will be served on board.

Meal: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner

Overnight on Ha Long cruise

Enjoy the fresh morning in the middle of the bay, the sun rises on Ha Long in the morning and breakfast is served (brunch on some boats) while the vessels cruise slowly through the magnificent rock formations and back towards port. Disembark and transfer back to Hanoi airport for flying to Da Nang.

Your local team will meet you at Da Nang airport and transfer to Hoi An.

Check in hotel and free at leisure.

Meal: Breakfast or Brunch

Overnight at hotel

Experience the perfect blend of culture and history as you explore two remarkable UNESCO World Heritage sites: the enchanting ancient town of Hoi An and the majestic My Son Sanctuary, hidden amid the lush countryside just beyond the city.

Begin your day with a scenic 1.5-hour drive from Hoi An to My Son, Vietnam’s most significant and iconic Cham archaeological site. With your private driver and English-speaking guide, spend the morning wandering through the evocative Hindu temple ruins dedicated to Shiva. Once a thriving spiritual center of the Champa Kingdom, My Son is regarded as one of Southeast Asia’s foremost Hindu temple complexes—often compared to Angkor in Cambodia, Ayutthaya in Thailand, and Borobudur in Indonesia. Although parts were damaged during the Vietnam War, many impressive structures remain, offering a powerful glimpse into an ancient civilization.

Return to Hoi An and discover the charm of the historic old town. Begin at the 200-year-old Tan Ky House, lovingly preserved by seven generations. Continue to the Museum of Trade Ceramics, home to captivating artifacts collected from across Asia and the Middle East. A short stroll brings you to the 17th-century Chua Ong Pagoda, surrounded by a neighborhood rich in Chinese architectural heritage—perfect for a relaxed wander. While in town, don’t miss the chance to try Bánh Mì, often hailed as the world’s best sandwich. It’s one of the iconic Hoi An specialties that no traveler should leave without tasting. 

Return to your hotel for refreshment.

Meal: Breakfast 

Overnight at hotel

This morning, enjoy an authentic countryside experience and gain an up-close look at the daily lives of Vietnam’s local farming and fishing communities. Begin the day with a leisurely bicycle ride along peaceful country roads, observing rural life as it unfolds around you.

Continue to Tra Que Vegetable Village, where you’ll discover traditional organic farming methods and learn how vegetables are grown using age-old techniques. The experience deepens with hands-on activities in the rice paddies, where you’ll learn how rice is cultivated in flooded fields and gain a true appreciation of the challenges faced by Vietnamese farmers. Your guide will explain each stage of the rice-growing process, from plowing the fields with water buffalo to transplanting young rice seedlings into the paddies.

Next, board a traditional basket boat (thúng chai) to explore tranquil waterways lined with coconut palms. Along the way, meet local fishermen and hear stories of daily life, as well as historical accounts related to the American War in this area.

After returning to a local home, enjoy a delicious lunch accompanied by a cold beer or soft drink. The tour concludes with a comfortable transfer back to your hotel, bringing a memorable rural adventure to a close.

Free time at leisure in the afternoon.

At 5.30 PM, our guide will pick you up at the hotel for the special Teh Dar show – a must-see cultural show at Lune Center - the only bamboo theatre at the heart of the ancient town. It was built for local art performances, being especially honored as home to the world-renowned Vietnamese Bamboo Circus.

At Hoi An Lune Center's Bamboo Theatre, audiences will experience dramatic stories drawn from daily life in different regions in Vietnam, told through the electrifying medium of Vietnamese Bamboo Circus. Using the art of storytelling circus together with bamboo props and live music, the Vietnamese Bamboo Circus vividly represents traditional cultures. The theatre promises to bring every audience a joyful and unforgettable experience.

Note: Teh Dar show is not available on Monday. If the show is not available, it will be replaced with Hoi An Memories show. 

Meal: Breakfast, lunch

Overnight at hotel

Meet your driver and guide, then begin the drive towards Ba Na Hills (approx. 1.5 hours). Upon arrival, board one of the world’s longest cable cars, rising above tropical forests, waterfalls, and misty mountaintops. Enjoy stunning panoramic views and fresh mountain air at 1,400+ meters. Next, walk across the world-famous “Hands of God Bridge,” a 150-meter pedestrian walkway held by giant stone hands. Enjoy time for photography and soaking up the views of the Truong Son mountain range. Then continue to the summit area and visit French Village, Flower gardens, Linh Ung Pagoda & giant Buddha statue.  

In the afternoon, descend by Cable Car and begin the scenic 3–3.5 hour drive through the scenic Hải Vân Pass to the imperial city of Hue. Arrive in Hue in the late afternoon.

Check in hotel and free at leisure.

Meal: Breakfast

Overnight at hotel

In the morning, your guide will pick you up at your hotel for a full-day tour of Hue, the former Imperial Capital of Vietnam from 1802 to 1945 and the final stronghold of Vietnamese feudalism. Hue is renowned for its harmonious blend of natural scenery and an exceptional collection of historical relics. 

Begin the Imperial Citadel, a UNESCO World Heritage Site covering 520 hectares. Built in the early 19th century, this fortress-like complex consists of three concentric enclosures: Kinh Thanh Hue (the Civic City), Hoang Thanh (the Royal City), and Tu Cam Thanh (the Forbidden City), each protected by massive ramparts and impressive gates. Continue by car to the Thien Mu Pagoda, an active Buddhist monastery overlooking the Perfume River with its origin dating back to 1601. Next, transfer to the Tomb of Emperor Tu Duc, a tranquil royal retreat of lakes, pavilions, and pine forests, reflecting the poetic and contemplative spirit of the Nguyen emperor. Afterwards, take a stroll through Thuy Xuan incense village and discover the traditional incense-making process before returning to the city.

The former imperial capital of Hue is renowned not only for the magnificent monuments of the Nguyen Dynasty but also for its vibrant culture and exceptional cuisine. In the late afternoon, explore the city’s unique flavors and culinary traditions on a cyclo, Hue’s traditional rickshaw. We begin the food tour with a cyclo ride from your hotel, crossing the historic Tràng Tiền Bridge to visit the vibrant Đông Ba Market, where you’ll see the fresh ingredients used in Hue’s local cuisine and experience the lively daily trade of the city’s residents. Continue by cyclo through bustling streets to observe everyday life, circle around the royal citadel, take photos at scenic spots, and hear fascinating stories about Hue’s past and present. Throughout the tour, we will stop at several famous street-food stalls to savor a variety of Hue specialties, such as bánh khoái (Hue pancake), bún bò Huế (spicy beef noodle soup), bánh bột lọc (tapioca dumplings), bánh bèo (steamed rice discs with shrimp), bánh ram ít (sticky rice dumplings on a crispy base), and more.

Back to hotel then free at leisure.

Meal: Breakfast, dinner with street food

Overnight at hotel in Hue

Transfer to Hue airport to take the flight to Hanoi or Ho Chi Minh city. Upon arrival to Tan Son Nhat International Airport you will be welcomed by your guide holding a sign with your name on it. He will escort you to your hotel (approx. 30-minute-drive). Check in time is after 2 PM.

Ho Chi Minh City, formerly Saigon, is Vietnam’s largest and most dynamic metropolis—alive with constant movement, modern skyscrapers, and endless shopping and entertainment. Beneath its dazzling energy, the city also preserves a rich historical legacy that contrasts beautifully with its contemporary charm. Depending on your arrival time, start exploring the colonial charm of the city center. Begin your journey at the Jade Emperor Temple, one of Vietnam’s few Taoist sanctuaries, built in 1909 and dedicated to the celestial ruler of heaven. Step inside and you’ll find yourself surrounded by incense smoke, carved wooden statues, and the mystical atmosphere of a century-old place of worship.

Continue to the Notre-Dame Cathedral of Saigon (currently under restoration), an elegant neo-Romanesque landmark built by the French more than 130 years ago, using red bricks and materials shipped all the way from Marseille. Just a short walk away stands the Central Post Office, a beautiful fusion of Gothic and Renaissance styles designed in the early 1900s, often attributed to the world-renowned architect Gustave Eiffel.

Your final stop is the iconic Ben Thanh Market, whose clock tower has become a symbol of the city. This bustling marketplace, dating back to 1870, is packed with stalls selling everything from clothing and handicrafts to aromatic spices and lacquerware—an ideal place to soak up local life and shop for souvenirs.

Meal: Breakfast

Overnight at hotel in Ho Chi Minh city

Tay Ninh is home to the fascinating Cao Dai faith, a uniquely Vietnamese religious movement that blends elements of Buddhism, Taoism, Confucianism, and even Catholicism—reflecting decades of cultural exchange and external influence. With your private driver and English-speaking guide, journey approximately 60 miles northwest of Ho Chi Minh City into the rural landscapes of Tay Ninh, where you’ll visit the movement’s spiritual center, the Great Temple, also known as the Cao Dai Holy See. Built in a striking architectural style, the temple vividly symbolizes the harmonious fusion of its diverse religious traditions.

Pause for a relaxing lunch at a local Vietnamese restaurant before continuing to the legendary Cu Chi Tunnels, an extraordinary example of wartime ingenuity and resilience. Created out of necessity, this vast underground network once stretched as far as Cambodia and included meeting rooms, kitchens, and medical areas. Hidden from sight, the tunnels were so well camouflaged that tanks could pass overhead without detection. Life below ground was extremely harsh, as residents endured food and oxygen shortages, venomous insects, and cramped living conditions—yet their perseverance remains a powerful testament to the strength and determination of the Vietnamese people.

Back to the city and free at leisure.

Meal: Breakfast

Overnight at hotel in Ho Chi Minh City

Today, you’ll explore the legendary Mekong Delta, known as the "Land of Nine Dragons," where the country's largest rice basket and warm-hearted farmers await, ready to leave indelible memories for every visitor. A short, picturesque 2-hour drive southwest from vibrant Saigon transports you to the heart of this captivating region, offering a unique opportunity to delve into local traditions and handicrafts amidst breathtaking scenery.

Upon arrival, step aboard the elegant Mekong Queen at Thong Luu bridge pier, located approximately 4km from Cai Be intersection. Cruise along the gentle tributaries of the Mekong River, indulging in fresh local fruits as the tropical breeze caresses your skin. Marvel at the bustling riverside scenes, where rice-related activities unfold along the banks and local boats ply their trade. Cross the mighty Mekong River, disembark briefly for a leisurely bicycle ride along tranquil village lanes shaded by verdant orchards. Immerse yourself in the serenity of rural life, finding solace in the simple pleasures that abound. Along the way, visit local families skilled in crafting traditional products such as rice wine, bamboo handicrafts, and unique items made from natural materials like water hyacinth and banana ropes. After your cycling adventure, savor a delightful meal hosted by a local family, featuring authentic Mekong Delta specialties that showcase the region's rich culinary heritage. Following lunch, continue your exploration with a leisurely sampan ride through the island's picturesque canals, revealing hidden gems and tranquil waterways. 

Conclude your journey with a short cruise back to Cai Be pier, where your awaiting car stands ready to transport you to Can Tho. 

Meal: Breakfast, lunch

Overnight at hotel in Can Tho

Early in the morning, depart from Ninh Kieu Wharf by shuttle boat and witness the lively atmosphere along the Can Tho riverbanks at dawn. Observe local life unfolding on the water as fishermen tend their traps and boats transport passengers and goods along the waterways. Upon reaching Cai Rang Floating Market, experience the vibrant trading scene where vendors advertise their produce using traditional “offering poles,” exchanging Mekong fruits and vegetables directly from boat to boat. To gain deeper insight into the local lifestyle, continue cruising into the narrow canals known as Rạch Nhỏ, where the peaceful charm of the southern countryside comes into full view, before returning to Ninh Kieu Wharf. Return to Ho Chi Minh City. 

Arrive at your hotel around noon.

In the afternoon, continue your exploration with visits to the War Remnants Museum, home to compelling wartime photographs and artifacts, and the Reunification Palace, the former presidential residence and symbol of South Vietnam until 1975.

At 6.15 PM, pick up at hotel then enjoy a cyclo tour around 45 minutes then transfer to the Bach Dang Pier on Saigon River, you enter the replica of the emperor's “Sai Gon boat Cruise” for a magnificent and memorable dining and entertainment spectacle along the Saigon river. Enjoy 2 hours cruise and gastronomic moments with soft and classic music on the most authentic vessel on the river. The captain will welcome you onboard and introduce you to the specialties which have made this boat a culinary experience in Ho Chi Minh City. While on board, relax on the upper deck and enjoy a panoramic view of the city lights. Dinner will finish at 9.30 PM then back to your hotel.

Meal: Breakfast, dinner

Overnight at hotel in Ho Chi Minh City

In the morning transfer to the airport for flying to Phu Quoc.

Arrive at Phu Quoc airport. Meet your driver and get a transfer to your hotel.

Check in hotel after 14h. Free at leisure.

Meal: Breakfast

Overnight at hotel in Phu Quoc

Escape to the turquoise waters of Phu Quoc’s southern archipelago on this refreshing island-hopping experience. Travel by speedboat to a collection of pristine islands, where crystal-clear seas, colorful coral reefs, and soft white-sand beaches create the perfect tropical getaway.

Begin your journey with a transfer to An Thoi Port, where you board a speedboat and cruise across the calm waters of the Gulf of Thailand. Your first stop is Hon Gam Ghi, one of Phu Quoc’s best snorkeling sites, renowned for its vibrant coral gardens and rich marine life. Spend time swimming and snorkeling in the clear waters, suitable for both beginners and experienced snorkelers.

Continue to Hon May Rut Trong, a tranquil island known for its beautiful beach and relaxed atmosphere. Enjoy free time to swim, unwind on the sand, or simply soak up the island scenery. A light meal or refreshments are served at a beachfront restaurant, allowing you to enjoy local flavors in a tropical setting.

Conclude the tour with a visit to either Hon Thom or Hon Mong Tay, depending on sea conditions. Here, you can enjoy additional beach time, take photos, or relax before cruising back to the mainland and returning to your hotel.

Meal: Breakfast, lunch

Overnight at hotel in Phu Quoc

Free time at leisure.

Meal: Breakfast

Overnight at hotel in Phu Quoc

Free time at leisure.

Check out your hotel at noon and transfer to the airport for the departure flight. End tour.

Meal: Breakfast