Vietnam Discovery

We arrive in Hanoi and settle into our hotel, ready to dive into the city’s vibrant rhythm. At 13:00 hrs, our guide meets us for an afternoon of discovery through the capital’s cultural and historical heart.

We begin by exploring the Ho Chi Minh Mausoleum, a monumental tribute to Vietnam’s most revered leader, before continuing to the One Pillar Pagoda — an elegant wooden structure rising gracefully from a lotus pond, nearly a thousand years old. Our journey then takes us to the Temple of Literature, Vietnam’s first university, where ancient courtyards and stone steles whisper stories of scholars and philosophers who shaped the nation’s intellectual heritage.

As we wander through the lively streets around Hoan Kiem Lake and the Old Quarter, we encounter Hanoi’s timeless charm — tree-lined boulevards, colonial facades, and hidden temples tucked amid the hum of scooters and street vendors. At the lake’s edge, we pause to visit Ngoc Son Temple, perched on a tiny island linked by a bright red bridge.

As evening falls, we enjoy a traditional Water Puppet Show, a captivating art form unique to Vietnam that brings folklore and village life to life through colorful puppets gliding over water. We end the day gathered over dinner, reflecting on our first impressions of this enchanting city.

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 wake up to sunrise and admire the never-ending miraculous scenery of the Bay.

After a light breakfast, we hop aboard a bamboo boat to explore the enchanting Dark & Bright Cave. As we glide quietly through hidden lagoons framed by towering cliffs, the world feels hushed and magical — a secret pocket of paradise revealed only to those who venture this far.

Back on the cruise, a delicious brunch awaits as we sail toward the harbor, watching the majestic karsts recede into the horizon. By late morning, we disembark and continue our 4-hour long journey south to Ninh Binh, often called “Halong Bay on land” for its striking limestone landscapes.

Upon arrival, we make our way to Thung Nham Bird Valley, a tranquil sanctuary where nature truly thrives. Here, we drift along calm waters on a small boat, watching flocks of storks, herons, and kingfishers sweep gracefully across the sky. We explore hidden caves, wander through a lush tropical orchard, and step inside a peaceful Buddhist cave temple — each moment offering a deeper connection with the land and its quiet spirit.

By the end of the day, we feel completely immersed in the rhythm of rural Vietnam — a place where nature and culture exist in perfect harmony.

Today, we start our day at Hang Múa (Mua Cave Viewpoint), where a climb of over 500 stone steps rewards us with breathtaking panoramic views of Tam Coc’s emerald rice fields, winding rivers, and dramatic limestone peaks. This invigorating hike energizes us and sets the tone for a day full of exploration and discovery.

Next, we continue to Trang An, embarking on a scenic boat ride through a tranquil network of waterways, limestone caves, and hidden valleys. As we glide along, we pass ancient temples, towering cliffs, and peaceful riverbanks, fully immersing ourselves in the region’s natural beauty and rich history.

After lunch at a local restaurant, we visit Hoa Lu Ancient Capital, Vietnam’s political center during the 10th and 11th centuries. On a guided tour, we explore temples dedicated to Kings Dinh and Le, uncover stories of early dynasties, and gain deeper insight into Vietnam’s cultural and political heritage, all framed by striking limestone scenery.

This morning, we set out to explore Van Long Nature Reserve, the largest wetland conservation area in Vietnam’s Northern Delta, teeming with diverse wildlife, lush vegetation, and vibrant aquatic life. We enjoy a leisurely bike ride through peaceful villages, following quiet paths to Van Long Lagoon and along the dike, where the calm waters and towering limestone peaks create a serene and picturesque backdrop.

After soaking in the tranquil beauty of the wetlands, we transfer to Noi Bai Airport for our flight to Hue. Upon arrival, our guide welcomes us and escorts us to our hotel, where we settle in and relax. The rest of the day is at leisure, giving us time to unwind, take in the surroundings, or simply enjoy the comforts of our accommodation after a day of cycling and exploration.

Today, we hop on our bicycles for a leisurely countryside loop around Hue, the famed “Purple City,” weaving through charming nooks and corners and immersing ourselves in the beauty of Vietnam’s historic capital.

As we pedal along, we explore the Imperial Citadel, visit the serene Thien Mu Pagoda, and glimpse the grand mausoleums of past emperors. Our ride takes us past traditional merchant houses lining the Perfume River, through quiet lanes and lush gardens, allowing us to soak in the city’s rich history and tranquil atmosphere at our own pace.

After a hearty breakfast, we depart Hue for a scenic drive to Hoi An, a journey that feels like a moving postcard. We pass Lang Co Bay, where turquoise waters meet white sands and wooden fishing boats drift lazily, then wind our way up the Hai Van Pass, taking in sweeping views of mountains, forests, waterfalls, and the sea. This rugged pass marks the final descent of the Truong Son Range into the ocean before we continue downhill to Hoi An, the enchanting former trading port and UNESCO World Heritage Site.

Upon arrival, we immediately feel the town’s charm, where centuries of cultural exchange blend Vietnamese, European, Chinese, and Japanese influences. The pace is unhurried, the streets timeless, and every corner tells a story.

In the afternoon, we join a guided Lantern Trail walk through the Old Town. As dusk falls, glowing lanterns illuminate cobbled streets, assembly halls, and the iconic Japanese Covered Bridge, while riverside cafés hum with life, a living museum of Hoi An’s trading heritage.

After dinner, we have free time to explore at our own pace. We might enjoy a leisurely boat ride along the Hoai River, watching lanterns shimmer on the water, or wander the vibrant night market, alive with lights, local crafts, and street food. If our visit coincides with a full moon night (1st, 14th, or 15th days of the lunar month), we experience Hoi An transformed—its streets aglow with lanterns, the river bathed in warm light, and a magical, romantic atmosphere that captures the town’s true spirit.

Today, we immerse ourselves in the tranquil countryside of Hoi An, blending hands-on gardening with an authentic Vietnamese cooking experience. It’s a day designed to connect us with local traditions amidst a picture-perfect rural setting.

We start with a leisurely warm-up ride through the idyllic Hoi An countryside. We pedal along narrow village paths, past peaceful shrimp farms, vibrant rice paddies, and meandering waterways, arriving at the charming Cam Thanh Village, where life moves at an unhurried pace.

Next, we explore Tra Que Village, famed for its aromatic herbs. Here, we stroll through lush gardens, interact with local farmers, and join them in their daily gardening tasks. We learn the art of making rice paper, enjoy a soothing herbal foot massage, and sip refreshing herbal drinks—truly a multi-sensory experience of rural life.

Then, we step into the heart of Vietnamese cuisine with a hands-on cooking class. Together, we prepare traditional dishes like Tam Huu (spring rolls) and Banh Xeo (savory pancakes), along with a spread of papaya salad, braised or cinnamon fish in a clay pot, sautéed vegetables, steamed rice, and dessert. Once cooked, we sit down to enjoy our creations and celebrate our culinary efforts.

After lunch, we continue cycling through Hoi An’s peaceful countryside, taking in the serene landscapes and the charm of rural village life. By mid-afternoon, we return to our hotel, leaving the rest of the day free to relax, explore the town, or simply unwind in this enchanting setting.

We start our 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 take some time to refresh. Later in the morning, our guide meets us at the hotel for a walking tour of the city’s highlights. We explore bustling Ben Thanh Market, the elegant Saigon Opera House, the historic Continental Hotel, and the iconic Reunification Palace. Along the way, we visit Notre Dame Cathedral, the Central Post Office, and the War Remnants Museum, gaining insight into the city’s rich history and vibrant culture while soaking up the unique rhythm of modern Saigon.

As evening falls, we hop on vintage Vespas for an unforgettable tour of Saigon after dark. We ride through lively neighborhoods, stopping to savor local cuisine, sip drinks, and enjoy live music, immersing ourselves in the city’s energy and charm. This exhilarating experience combines culture, food, and nightlife, giving us a dynamic glimpse of Saigon that’s both thrilling and memorable.

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 begin our journey with a shuttle transfer to Cai Lay, on the outskirts of Saigon. From there, we continue along a tranquil creek, passing vibrant paddy fields and dragon fruit farms, before arriving at Cai Be. Here, we embark on a boat trip along the mighty Mekong River and its winding tributaries, immersing ourselves in the daily rhythm of life on the waterways. We explore the floating market at Cai Be, witnessing the colorful bustle of commerce, and visit a family-run rice paper workshop, learning how this essential ingredient of Vietnamese cuisine is made.

For lunch, we stop at a local house on an island, surrounded by fruit orchards and bonsai trees, enjoying a delicious home-cooked meal.

Afterwards, we drive approximately 90 minutes to Can Tho, settling on the southern bank of the Hau River. Known for its intricate network of canals and nearby floating markets, Can Tho offers a fascinating glimpse into the heart of the Mekong Delta, blending natural beauty with the vibrancy of daily life along the waterways.

We rise early to explore the Cai Rang floating market by boat, witnessing the vibrant riverfront come alive with activity. From here, we cycle to Phong Dien floating market, weaving through bustling riverbanks and soaking in the sights of daily life. Along the way, we observe cottage industries, timber merchants, coconut shredders, and small docks where rice is loaded and unloaded, all framed by the colorful chaos of tiny local markets. Our bike ride follows narrow lanes, looping back to the main road, giving us a true sense of life along the Mekong Delta waterways. The remainder of the day is ours to relax and enjoy at leisure.

Today we drive to Saigon for an extension here or for our onward flight.