Guided Classic Highlights of Vietnam

Upon arrival, we settle into our hotel and prepare to explore the city of Hanoi.

As evening falls, we gather for a traditional Water Puppet Show, a delightful performance where wooden puppets dance across the water, bringing centuries-old folk tales to life.

Begin your day with a guided city walking tour of Hanoi, exploring historic landmarks and hidden alleys. Dive into local culture, and colonial architecture. Later, relax on a cyclo ride through the bustling Old Quarter, soaking in vibrant streets, markets, and traditional shop houses for an authentic Hanoi experience.

This morning, we set out for one of Asia’s most breathtaking natural wonders — the awe-inspiring limestone karst landscape of Lan Ha Bay. Located just south of the famed Halong Bay, Lan Ha is its quieter, more pristine sister — a hidden paradise of emerald waters, secluded coves, and forested limestone peaks rising dramatically from the sea. Its calm waters make it perfect for kayaking, swimming, or simply drifting along and soaking in the serenity of this otherworldly seascape.

We board our cruise and settle into our elegant cabins as the vessel begins gliding through the maze of towering limestone islands. A delicious Vietnamese lunch awaits us, where every window frames a cinematic view of the bay. We cruise deeper into the tranquil waters of Lan Ha Bay, where dramatic limestone karsts rise from the sea in a stunning natural panorama. Continue to the quieter Ong Cam area, an unspoiled corner of the bay, perfect for kayaking or swimming in clear, calm waters.

Return to the cruise and anchor for the night. Enjoy a hands-on cooking demonstration, learning to prepare traditional Vietnamese spring rolls, followed by a relaxed sunset party on the sundeck with local wine and fresh fruits.

In the evening, savour a delicious dinner featuring regional specialties prepared by the onboard chefs. Afterward, unwind at leisure — relax in the cabin, try night fishing, enjoy a drink at the bar, or simply soak in the peaceful atmosphere before an overnight stay on board.

Kindly note that the cruise itinerary may vary based on weather conditions and the cruise operator’s seasonal schedule.

We start the day watching the sunrise over the bay, taking in the breathtaking panorama as the light dances across limestone peaks and emerald waters. After a light breakfast with tea and coffee, we glide toward the heart of Halong Bay, where hidden wonders await. Boarding small rowing boats, we explore the mysterious Dark & Bright Cave and nearby islets, immersing ourselves in the wild beauty of this World Heritage landscape.

Back on the cruise, we relax and savor a leisurely brunch before disembarking at Tuan Chau International Marina.

From here, we transfer to Hanoi for our flight to Da Nang International Airport. Upon arrival, we are transferred to our hotel in Hue. The rest of the day is free for us to unwind, perhaps with a quiet stroll along the Perfume River or a relaxing evening in Hue’s laid-back ambiance.

Today, we hop on our bikes to explore Hue, Vietnam’s historic “purple city,” weaving through the peaceful countryside and uncovering hidden corners that reveal the charm of this imperial capital.

As we pedal along, we follow quiet lanes lined with lush gardens, past traditional merchant houses, and alongside the tranquil Perfume River. We pass iconic landmarks like the Citadel, Thien Mu Pagoda, and the royal mausoleums, taking in their grandeur and rich history. At our own pace, we soak up the rhythm of local life, glimpsing daily activities in the streets and villages, making this a leisurely yet immersive way to experience Hue’s timeless beauty.

After enjoying a hearty breakfast, we leave Hue and embark on a scenic drive to Hoi An. The journey is a feast for the eyes- skimming past Lang Co Bay, where turquoise waters lap against pristine white sands and wooden fishing boats drift gently. We climb the winding Hai Van Pass, taking in sweeping vistas of mountains, forests, waterfalls, and the ocean, before descending into the charming streets of Hoi An, a UNESCO World Heritage town that exudes timeless beauty.

Upon arrival, we dive into a hands-on Vietnamese cooking class, learning traditional recipes and techniques. Together, we prepare and savor local dishes, connecting with the flavors, aromas, and culture of central Vietnam in a truly immersive and delicious experience.

We set out on a guided walking tour through the narrow lanes of Hoi An’s UNESCO World Heritage-listed Old Town, once a thriving trading port from the 15th to 19th century. As we stroll through pedestrian-only streets, we pass beautifully preserved temples, merchant houses, and pagodas that reflect French, Vietnamese, Chinese, and Japanese influences.

We walk across the historic Japanese Covered Bridge, listening to stories of its 400-year-old legacy, before continuing to the Assembly Hall of the Chaozhou Chinese Congregation to admire its intricate wood carvings and architectural detail.

Our walk concludes at the vibrant local market, where we weave through stalls filled with colorful wares, spices, and exotic fruits. We also explore the famous silk section and tailoring area, where Hoi An’s craftsmanship comes to life.

We start the day with a transfer to Da Nang Airport for our flight to Ho Chi Minh City. Upon arrival in Saigon, we settle into our hotel and prepare to explore the city.

In the evening, we hop on vintage Vespas for a thrilling evening tour through the city’s lively neighborhoods. Riding through glowing streets, we stop to savor local delicacies, enjoy drinks, and soak in live music, experiencing firsthand the rhythm and spirit of Saigon after dark. This adventure combines culture, cuisine, and excitement, offering us an unforgettable glimpse into the city’s vibrant nightlife.

Note: Vietnam Airlines may adjust schedules without notice, so departures from Hoi An could be earlier or later than planned. We appreciate your flexibility.

We depart from Ho Chi Minh City in the morning, driving through scenic countryside dotted with rice fields and rubber plantations en route to the historic Cu Chi Tunnels.

Upon arrival, we explore the vast underground network, learning about its role during the war while discovering hidden entrances, trapdoors, and compact living spaces. We also have the option to crawl through a short tunnel section for a more immersive experience. We return to the city, reflecting on this fascinating and educational journey.

After breakfast, we conclude our journey and prepare for our onward departure.