Welcome to Vietnam!

Upon your arrival at Hanoi’s Noi Bai International Airport, your guide will meet you and escort you to your hotel. As the capital of Vietnam, Hanoi is a city rich in history and culture, having proudly celebrated its 1,000th anniversary in 2010. Known for its deep-rooted appreciation of the arts and learning, Hanoi features elegant architecture that reflects harmony with nature, modest in scale, yet full of charm.

Enjoy the afternoon at your leisure to rest or explore the surroundings. In the evening, gather with your group for a welcome dinner at a local restaurant, offering an introduction to the flavors of Vietnamese cuisine.
Overnight in Hanoi.

Begin your day with a scenic drive from your hotel through the historic Ba Dinh Square, where President Ho Chi Minh proclaimed Vietnam’s independence in 1945. Take in the square’s grand architecture and serene atmosphere, which reflect the city’s deep historical significance.

Next, visit Lenin Garden, a peaceful communal space where locals gather for exercise, leisure, and socializing. It’s an ideal spot for people-watching and experiencing the rhythm of daily life in Hanoi.

From here, dive into the city's hidden charm as you stroll through the narrow alleys of Hanoi. These backstreets are home to family-run sewing shops that have been passed down for generations. You'll witness a way of life that has remained largely unchanged, offering a unique window into traditional Vietnamese living. Don’t forget your camera—this is a truly authentic experience worth capturing.

Continue to the Temple of Literature, Vietnam’s first national university, founded in the late 11th century. As you explore its peaceful courtyards and pavilions, you’ll learn about its vital role in shaping the nation’s intellectual and cultural legacy.

Your next stop is the Vietnam Museum of Ethnology (closed on Mondays), a fascinating museum and research center dedicated to the country’s diverse ethnic groups. Through immersive displays and exhibitions, you’ll gain a deeper understanding of Vietnam’s rich cultural tapestry.

Enjoy lunch at a local restaurant before heading to the vibrant Old Quarter. Walk through its maze-like network of streets, each named after traditional trades, and soak up the energy of this historic district. On Nha Chung Street, watch as food and produce vendors gather daily, offering a glimpse into the city’s dynamic street culture.

Later, you’ll be welcomed into a French colonial-era house, where you’ll enjoy a traditional tea break with a local Hanoian. Listen to personal stories and gain insight into how life has evolved across generations in the heart of Hanoi.

Conclude your day with a performance of the Water Puppet Show, a unique and captivating northern Vietnamese art form that originated in the flooded rice paddies of the Red River Delta.

After the show, return to your hotel for a well-earned rest.

After being picked up from your hotel, depart Hanoi at 7:30 AM by private car or van. Enjoy a scenic drive through the Vietnamese countryside, arriving at the Halong Bay jetty around 12:30 PM. Upon arrival, you’ll be warmly welcomed aboard your deluxe cruise vessel, where a delicious lunch will be served as you begin your journey through one of Vietnam’s most breathtaking natural wonders.

As you cruise through the emerald waters of Halong Bay, marvel at the otherworldly landscape—thousands of limestone karsts and islets rising dramatically from the sea, often likened to the jagged teeth of dragons.

In the afternoon, enjoy a short hike to a nearby summit, offering panoramic views of the bay dotted with golden sails and traditional junks. Afterwards, relax with a swim at a secluded beach or simply unwind on the sundeck, soaking in the tranquil surroundings.

Later, visit a floating fishing village, where you’ll have the rare chance to meet local fishermen who have lived in the bay for generations. Learn about their unique way of life and the close-knit community that calls this UNESCO World Heritage Site home.

Return to the boat in time for sunset cocktails on deck, followed by a lavish dinner served on board. Spend the night in comfort and serenity aboard your deluxe junk, surrounded by the calm waters and limestone cliffs of Halong Bay.

Start your day with a peaceful Tai Chi session on the sundeck, as the sun rises over the magnificent limestone karsts—an unforgettable way to greet the morning in Halong Bay.

After a light breakfast, set out to explore one of the bay’s beautiful limestone grottoes, adorned with impressive stalactites and stalagmites. Then return to the boat for a final, leisurely cruise through the bay, offering last glimpses of its awe-inspiring seascape.

Check out at 11:45 AM, and disembark at the harbor around noon. From there, your driver will take you back to Hanoi, arriving in the late afternoon.

The rest of the day is yours to enjoy at your leisure, whether you choose to explore more of the city, relax at your hotel, or shop for souvenirs. Overnight stay in Hanoi.

After breakfast, enjoy some free time to relax or explore Hanoi at your own pace before your transfer to the airport for your flight to Hue, Vietnam’s former imperial capital.

Upon arrival in Hue, you’ll be met by your guide and transferred to your hotel. The rest of the day is at your leisure to begin discovering this tranquil city, rich in history and royal heritage.
Overnight stay in Hue.

Once the seat of power for the Nguyen Lords from the 17th to 19th centuries, Hue is a city steeped in history and royal heritage. Its majestic tombs, ancient pagodas, and the remnants of the Imperial Citadel all contribute to its timeless charm.

Begin your day with a visit to Thien Mu Pagoda, one of Vietnam’s most iconic and best-preserved religious monuments. Built in 1601 and perched on a hilltop overlooking the Perfume River, its distinctive seven-tiered tower has become a symbol of Hue.

Next, choose between two enriching experiences:

Option 1: The Imperial Citadel
Step through the towering main gate into the heart of the Imperial Citadel, part of the UNESCO-listed Complex of Hue Monuments. As you explore its palaces, temples, and gardens, your guide will share fascinating stories of court life, royal ceremonies, and political intrigue. Despite wartime damage, many structures remain impressively intact or have been lovingly restored.

Option 2: The Royal Tomb of Minh Mang
Venture to the beautifully designed Tomb of Emperor Minh Mang, known for its harmonious layout and classical architecture. Set amid a serene forest, the tomb reflects the emperor’s Confucian ideals and appreciation for symmetry. Though he passed away before its completion, his son fulfilled the vision, creating one of Hue’s most elegant royal tombs.

In the afternoon, enjoy a short drive into the Hue countryside to visit Duong No Village, where a young Ho Chi Minh once lived and studied. Stroll along the peaceful riverbank to the Thanh Toan Covered Bridge, an architectural gem blending Chinese and Japanese influences. Admire its rare timber arch, delicate ceramic details, and calligraphy in both ancient Vietnamese and Chinese script.

Return to your hotel to relax and reflect on a day immersed in the legacy of Vietnam’s imperial past.

After breakfast, depart Hue for the charming town of Hoi An, a UNESCO World Heritage Site known for its well-preserved ancient streets and rich cultural fusion.

En route, stop in Danang to visit the Cham Museum, home to the world’s most extensive collection of Cham sculpture and artifacts—offering a fascinating glimpse into the ancient Champa Kingdom that once ruled central Vietnam.

Continue your journey with a visit to the handicraft villages at the base of Marble Mountain, where skilled artisans create intricate stone carvings, traditional sculptures, and local souvenirs. If time permits, you may also explore the mountain's caves and pagodas that have long been places of worship and pilgrimage.

Upon arrival in Hoi An, check in to your hotel and enjoy some free time to relax or start exploring the atmospheric Old Town, where lantern-lit alleys, riverside cafes, and centuries-old architecture await.
Overnight stay in Hoi An.

This morning, step into the rhythms of daily life along the waterways that once made Hoi An a vital trading port. These rivers remain central to local livelihoods, especially for the fishing communities that call this region home.

Begin your day with a visit to a local fishing village, where you’ll learn about the traditional techniques and lifestyle of the area’s fishermen. Then, board a local riverboat and cruise along the peaceful Cua Dai River. Along the way, stop to try your hand at casting Vietnamese fishing nets—an age-old skill that’s harder than it looks! With guidance from experienced local fishermen, you'll get an authentic feel for this enduring tradition.

Next, hop into a round basket boat, a uniquely Vietnamese vessel, and paddle through narrow waterways lined with lush coconut palms. As you drift through this tranquil setting, your guide will share stories of how this region was once a hotspot during the American War.

Return to the main boat and enjoy a refreshing drink as you cruise back upriver. A delicious lunch awaits, giving you time to relax before continuing your exploration.

In the afternoon, set out on a guided walking tour of Hoi An Ancient Town, a UNESCO World Heritage Site famed for its exceptionally well-preserved architecture and car-free streets. Discover the town’s rich cultural tapestry as you explore:

• Historic merchant houses blending Chinese, Japanese, and Vietnamese styles

• The iconic Japanese Covered Bridge, built in the 1590s to connect the Japanese and Chinese quarters

• The ornate Assembly Hall of the Chaozhou Chinese Congregation, featuring detailed wood carvings

• A bustling local market, known for vibrant displays of silk, spices, and traditional handicrafts

If you're feeling inspired, you can even have tailor-made clothing created from the local silk—often ready within a day or two.

Return to your hotel and enjoy a relaxing evening in this atmospheric town.

After breakfast, leave Hoi An and transfer to Danang Airport for a short one-hour flight to Ho Chi Minh City, still affectionately known as Saigon. Upon arrival, you’ll be transferred to your centrally located hotel. Enjoy some free time to relax or explore the city at your own pace.

At 6:30 PM, get ready for an unforgettable evening on a Vespa food tour—a dynamic journey through the vibrant streets of Saigon after dark.

As the sun sets, the city truly comes to life. Hop on the back of a vintage Vespa and weave through the bustling traffic like a true local. This exciting ride takes you beyond the usual tourist paths, deep into the heart of Saigon’s neighborhoods where the authentic culinary scene thrives.

Your local guide will share stories of Saigon’s fascinating past—from its golden age in the 1960s to the modern vibrancy of the 21st century—while you stop at hand-picked local eateries. Sample a curated selection of Southern Vietnamese street food and regional specialties: from crispy rice paper rolls and savory banh mi to fresh seafood dishes, traditional desserts, and bold Vietnamese coffee.

Cap off the evening with a visit to a hidden cocktail bar tucked away in a quiet alley, where you’ll enjoy a signature drink in a setting few tourists ever find.

After this flavorful adventure through Saigon’s culinary landscape, return to your hotel for a restful overnight stay.

Depart from Saigon this morning for a scenic 1.5-hour drive to Ben Tre, located in the heart of the Mekong River Delta. As you leave the city behind, watch the landscapes transform into a peaceful patchwork of lush rice paddies, coconut groves, and fruit orchards.

Upon arrival at the pier, embark on a motorboat cruise to explore the legendary waterways of the Mekong. Begin with a brief visit to the Cai Be floating market, where vendors sell goods from boats piled high with fruits, vegetables, and local products.

Next, switch to a traditional rowing sampan and glide along the narrow canals that wind through the countryside. Enjoy the tranquil surroundings, where time seems to slow and the natural beauty of the delta reveals itself.

Return to the larger boat for a cruise across one of the wide branches of the Mekong River, passing by fish farms and riverside villages. Arrive at An Bình Island, where you’ll head to a local handmade canal and visit Ut Trinh Homestay for a delicious home-cooked lunch featuring regional specialties.

After lunch, take a leisurely walk through the surrounding orchard gardens, then enjoy a cup of tea while listening to traditional Southern Vietnamese folk music performed in a historic wooden house.

Continue your cultural immersion with a walk through a local village to visit family-run workshops where you can see how rice paper, coconut candy, and puffed rice are made. Sample some sweet treats and sip hot tea with your hosts.

For those who wish, an optional biking tour is available—cycle along peaceful village lanes past orchards, local schools, churches, pagodas, and traditional homes for a closer look at daily life in the delta.

Before heading back, stop at brick kilns where you’ll see how locals use traditional methods to craft pottery from clay.

Your journey concludes in Vinh Long City, where your driver awaits for the return trip to Saigon.

Morning:
After breakfast, transfer to Tan Cang Jetty in Binh Thanh District for a scenic speedboat ride along the Saigon River. As you leave the city behind, witness the contrast of glittering skyscrapers and bustling commercial districts giving way to lush green fields and traditional stilt houses.

Arrive at the Cu Chi Tunnels, a vast underground network that played a crucial role during the Vietnam War. Originally constructed in 1948 to protect Viet Cong guerrillas from French forces, these tunnels served as living quarters, communication hubs, supply routes, and even hospitals. Explore the complex tunnels to learn about the hardships faced by those who lived and fought underground, as well as the incredible resilience of the Vietnamese people during combat.

After the tour, enjoy the scenic boat ride back to Ho Chi Minh City.

Afternoon:
In the afternoon, embark on a guided city tour of Ho Chi Minh City (Saigon), beginning with a visit to the Reunification Palace, a symbol of Vietnam’s reunification and a key historical landmark. Then, head to the Notre-Dame Cathedral and the iconic Old Post Office, both beautiful examples of French colonial architecture.

Next, visit the War Remnants Museum, which provides a sobering and powerful look at the Vietnam War through exhibits, photographs, and artefacts. End the day with a stroll through Ben Thanh Market, a lively and colorful marketplace offering everything from souvenirs to local street food.

Overnight in Ho Chi Minh City.

Morning:
Fly to Siem Reap, Cambodia’s gateway to the magnificent Angkor Temple Complex. Upon arrival, you’ll be warmly greeted by your guide and transferred to your comfortable hotel for check-in (subject to availability).

Afternoon:
After checking in, embark on a journey to explore the ancient wonders of Angkor Thom, the last capital of the Khmer Empire. Begin at the South Gate, where you’ll enter through a majestic stone gateway flanked by colossal statues of gods and demons.

Continue to the iconic Bayon Temple, renowned for its 54 towers adorned with over 200 smiling faces of Avalokitesvara—the Bodhisattva of Compassion. Marvel at the intricate bas-reliefs of Baphuon and explore the impressive Elephant Terrace and the mysterious Terrace of the Leper King, each offering unique insights into Cambodia’s royal past.

End your afternoon with a visit to Bakheng Temple, perched atop a hill, where you can enjoy a breathtaking sunset view over the Angkor landscape—a truly magical experience.

Overnight in Siem Reap.

Early Morning:
Begin your day with a magical experience at Angkor Wat, one of the world’s most iconic temples. Depart your hotel at 5:30 AM, arriving at the east causeway of Angkor Wat, where your guide will escort you along a forested path leading to the temple’s entrance. Here, you’ll have the rare chance to witness the temple at dawn, bathed in the soft glow of early morning light, with very few others around—allowing you to truly absorb the tranquility and grandeur of this incredible monument.

As the sun rises, your guide will take you through the temple, exploring the first and second levels, with time for personal reflection and exploration. Learn about the history of King Suryavarman II and the temple’s significance as a symbol of both Hinduism and Khmer architecture. One of the highlights will be the bas-reliefs on the first level, which depict epic scenes from the Ramayana, Mahabharata, and the famous Churning of the Sea of Milk—each panel telling a unique story of divine myth and Khmer history.

Afterward, you’ll depart the temple via the cruciform terrace, passing by the libraries and grand entrance pavilion before crossing the west causeway. If you prefer a more leisurely experience, your guide can take you along the west gate at sunrise, where the temple reflects beautifully in the surrounding pools, free from the crowds that gather at the main entrance.

Morning Continuation:
Next, visit the stunning Ta Prohm, one of the most photogenic temples in Angkor, made famous by the movie Tomb Raider. Once home to 615 beautiful dancers, Ta Prohm has largely been left in its natural state, with ancient trees intertwining with the temple ruins. The contrast between man-made artistry and the unstoppable power of nature offers a perfect opportunity for reflection, exploration, and photography. Enjoy about one hour within the temple, soaking in its serene and mysterious atmosphere.

Breakfast & Village Visit:
After your temple exploration, enjoy a traditional Khmer noodle breakfast at the Preak Dak Khmer Village House, where you can taste authentic local flavors in a rural village setting before returning to your hotel.

Afternoon:
The rest of the day is free at your leisure. Relax or continue exploring Siem Reap’s rich cultural offerings before enjoying your overnight stay in Siem Reap.

Embark on a scenic boat ride across Tonle Sap Lake, one of Southeast Asia's largest freshwater lakes. As you cruise through the calm waters, you’ll pass by floating villages, where homes, schools, restaurants, and even hospitals are built on the water, offering a unique glimpse into the daily life of the local communities that thrive here.

Next, visit Les Artisans d'Angkor, a local workshop dedicated to preserving traditional Khmer arts and crafts. Here, you’ll have the opportunity to see artisans at work, creating intricate wood carvings, stone sculptures, and silk products—perfect souvenirs to take home.

Afterwards, you will be transferred to Siem Reap International Airport for your departure.