15 Days of Vietnam Culture Exploration

After breakfast, our car and driver will meet you at your hotel to begin the journey to Ha Long Bay, approximately 160 km away, or about a 2.5-hour drive. Along the route, you'll travel through the picturesque Red River Delta, where you'll have opportunities to admire and capture photos of Vietnamese farmers tending their rice paddies. Feel free to request stops to fully appreciate the serene countryside views.

You'll arrive at the jetty in Ha Long City around noon to complete check-in formalities. Once aboard the cruise, you'll be greeted with a welcome drink and treated to a delicious lunch as the boat begins its journey into the bay.

In the afternoon, you can join the scheduled visits and activities outlined in your cruise itinerary or simply relax on deck, taking in the breathtaking scenery. As evening approaches, the boat will anchor for the night among the magnificent karst formations. A delightful dinner will be served onboard, rounding off your day in this UNESCO World Heritage Site.

Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
Stay overnight on Ha Long Bay Cruise

After enjoying breakfast onboard, take in the final stunning views of Ha Long Bay as the boat cruises through more breathtaking limestone formations. Depending on your boat’s itinerary, you may visit a cave or participate in a short activity before returning to the harbor. Upon disembarking, our driver will be waiting to transfer you back to Hanoi.

You’ll arrive in Hanoi by mid-afternoon, just in time to experience two cultural highlights of the city.

Start with a visit to a traditional Water Puppet Show, a unique Vietnamese art form that originated in the northern rice paddies. The lively performance brings to life folklore and scenes of rural life through intricate puppetry accompanied by live music.

After the show, indulge in a cup of Hanoi’s signature egg coffee at a local café. This creamy, rich drink is a must-try for visitors, blending robust Vietnamese coffee with whipped egg yolks for a delightful treat.

With the evening free, you can explore Hanoi’s Old Quarter or enjoy dinner at a restaurant of your choice. Your guide will be happy to provide recommendations based on your preferences.

Meals: Breakfast, Brunch
Stay overnight in Hanoi

Half day city tour begins with a visit to the Ho Chi Minh Complex and Ba Dinh Square, a site of great historical and cultural significance for the Vietnamese people. This peaceful, traffic-free zone is surrounded by botanical gardens, monuments, memorials, and pagodas. Key landmarks within the complex include the Ho Chi Minh Mausoleum (viewed from the outside), the Presidential Palace, Ho Chi Minh’s Stilt House, and the Ho Chi Minh Museum. Step back in time as you explore the simple stilt house where Ho Chi Minh lived and worked during his early revolutionary years.

Just a short walk from the complex is the One Pillar Pagoda, an iconic 11th-century Buddhist structure. This elegant pagoda rises from the center of a lotus-shaped pond, supported by a single stone pillar, symbolizing purity and enlightenment.

Next, continue to the Temple of Literature, Vietnam's first university, built in 1070 by the Ly Dynasty to honor Confucius, prominent sages, and outstanding Vietnamese scholars. This historic site is a testament to the country’s reverence for education and learning.

After exploring the temple, take a leisurely stroll through Hanoi's Old Quarter, known for its narrow, bustling streets that preserve the essence of traditional Vietnamese trades and culture.

Following the city tour, our guide and driver will transfer you to Sapa via Vietnam’s longest expressway. This modern highway significantly reduces the travel time from Hanoi to Sapa, making the journey safer, faster, and more comfortable compared to traditional train travel. The drive will take approximately 4-5 hours, allowing you to relax and enjoy the scenic countryside en route to your destination

Located in the northwest of Vietnam, Sa Pa is a charming mountain town in Lao Cai Province, known for its breathtaking natural landscapes and rich cultural heritage. Nestled at the base of the Hoang Lien Son Mountain Range, Sa Pa is home to the iconic Fansipan Peak, the highest point in Indochina. The town is famous for its terraced rice fields, lush valleys, and ethnic minority communities, including the Hmong, Dao, and Tay people. Visitors can enjoy trekking, cultural experiences, and the cool climate that makes Sa Pa a year-round destination for nature and culture enthusiasts.

Meals: Breakfast
Stay overnight in Sa Pa

Begin your journey with a drive from Sapa Town to Lao Chai Village, following a scenic road that winds down the hill. Along the way, take in breathtaking views of the Muong Hoa Valley, surrounded by towering mountains and picturesque rice terrace fields. This route offers opportunities to encounter local ethnic communities, including the H’mong, Zay, and Red Dao people, who often sell tea, fruits, and sweets at roadside stalls.

Leaving the main road, you'll take a local path leading to the Black H’mong village of Lao Chai, where you can immerse yourself in the daily lives of the villagers. Observe traditional practices, learn about their culture, and enjoy the serene rural atmosphere.

From Lao Chai, continue with a trek of approximately 4 km to Ta Van Village, a cluster of rustic homes nestled within the gently flowing contours of terraced rice paddies. Here, you’ll meet members of the Giay ethnic minority, a unique group found only in the Northern highlands of Vietnam.

Pause for a well-earned break and savor lunch prepared by local people, enjoyed in the comfort of a local house. This peaceful moment amidst the stunning landscape offers a glimpse into the harmonious way of life in Vietnam’s northern highlands.

Meals: Breakfast, Lunch
Stay overnight in Sa Pa

Our car will pick you up at your hotel and transfer to the Cable Car station where you will get on cabin and take a 15-minute ride by cable car. At 6292,5m long, this is the longest non-stop three rope cable car in the world. Continue to climb about 600 steps to reach the summit of Mount Fansipan. Spend time  to admire the beautiful natural landscape of Sapa, Hoang Lien Son, Muong Hoa valley and the magnificent Hoang Lien Son mountain range. Then, transfer back to Sapa for lunch

After the tour, our guide and a private, air-conditioned car will meet you at your hotel in Sapa for your return journey to Hanoi. Traveling via the modern highway, the drive takes approximately 5 hours, ensuring a comfortable and efficient ride back to the city.

Meals: Breakfast
Stay overnight in Hanoi

Your day begins with a journey of approximately 100 km from your hotel to the Trang An Scenic Landscape Complex, a UNESCO World Heritage Site in Ninh Binh province. Upon arrival, enjoy a tranquil sampan boat trip along the turquoise river, which winds through a network of water caves and limestone karsts. The breathtaking scenery of Trang An, with its blend of emerald waters, towering peaks, and a clear blue sky, creates a serene atmosphere. Rowed by skilled locals, the boat ride typically lasts 2-3 hours, offering an unforgettable experience in this pristine natural setting.

In the afternoon, continue to Hoa Lu, Vietnam’s first capital established in the 11th century under the Dinh Dynasty. Serving both as a political center and a stronghold against northern invaders, Hoa Lu was later inherited by the Le Dynasty. Explore two historic temples: one dedicated to Dinh Tien Hoang, the first emperor of the Dinh Dynasty, and the other honoring the kings of the Le Dynasty. While the temples have weathered the test of time, they still preserve intricate carvings and sculptures in stone and wood, reflecting the artistry of the era.

Conclude the tour, and come back to your hotel in Hanoi.

Meals: Breakfast
Stay overnight in Hanoi

You have some free time at leisure before our guide and driver transfer you to Noi Bai International Airport for your flight to Hue.

Upon arrival at Phu Bai International Airport (Hue), you will be greeted by our tour guide, who will accompany you to your hotel in a comfortable, air-conditioned vehicle. The guide will assist with your hotel check-in, ensuring a smooth and hassle-free process.

Hue, once the Imperial City of Vietnam, served as the country’s capital during the Nguyen Dynasty (1802–1945). Renowned for its historical significance and cultural heritage, Hue is home to stunning palaces, ancient temples, pagodas, and the iconic Perfume River. It is recognized as a UNESCO World Heritage Site and offers a rich glimpse into Vietnam’s royal past.

Meals: Breakfast
Stay overnight in Hue

Your journey in Hue begins with a visit to the Minh Mang Tomb, an impressive imperial mausoleum that reflects the harmony between architecture and nature. Built to honor Emperor Minh Mang of the Nguyen Dynasty, the complex features beautifully landscaped gardens, lotus ponds, and intricate structures that offer a serene atmosphere and a glimpse into Vietnam's imperial history.

Following your visit, enjoy a half-day biking tour along the Perfume River, a picturesque route that takes you through charming villages, lush greenery, and scenic riverside views. This leisurely ride allows you to experience the tranquil countryside and connect with the local way of life.

As the day transitions to evening, dive into Hue’s vibrant culinary scene with a street food tour. Taste local specialties such as bánh bèo, bún bò Huế, and nem lụi. This flavorful journey through the streets of Hue is a perfect way to end your day, offering a deeper appreciation of the city’s unique culture and cuisine.

Meals: Breakfast
Stay overnight in Hue

Our tour guide will meet you at your hotel and transfer you to Hoi An in a comfortable, air-conditioned vehicle.

Upon arrival, begin a fascinating city tour of Hoi An, a UNESCO World Heritage Site that was once a thriving maritime commercial port in Asia from the 15th to 19th centuries. Today, it is a tranquil town celebrated for its exceptionally well-preserved architecture, traditional lifestyles, and rich cultural heritage. Hoi An showcases a harmonious blend of Vietnamese and international influences, including those from China, Japan, Thailand, and the Philippines.

Your exploration includes visits to iconic landmarks such as the 400-year-old Japanese Covered Bridge, a symbol of Hoi An, complete with a small temple on one side that reflects traditional Japanese architecture. Continue to the Museum of Trade Ceramics, housed in a beautifully restored wooden building from 1858, which displays a collection of antique ceramic artifacts highlighting the town's rich trading history.

Visit the 200-year-old Tan Ky House, a prime example of an ancient Chinese merchant residence with its traditional architectural features. Explore Ong Temple, was constructed in 1653 by Chinese settlers to honor Guan Yu, the legendary Chinese general known for his loyalty, bravery, and justice. Finally, immerse yourself in the vibrant atmosphere of the local market, bustling with colorful stalls and lively activities, offering an authentic glimpse into daily life in Hoi An.

Meals: Breakfast
Stay overnight in Hoi An

Start your day with a cycling trip to a traditional lantern-making family for an insightful half-day visit. Lanterns, introduced by Chinese and Japanese merchants in the late 14th century, have become the iconic symbol of Hoi An. This craft has been preserved for over 400 years. Under the guidance of skilled and welcoming artisans, you’ll learn the fascinating process of traditional lantern crafting. From shaping bamboo splints into frames to cutting fabric and assembling your lantern, every step offers a hands-on, rewarding experience. Take home your handmade lantern as a memorable keepsake of this tranquil town.

In the afternoon, continue your cycling adventure to Tra Que Village, located 3 km from Hoi An’s center. Renowned for its organic farming practices, Tra Que provides fresh, chemical-free vegetables that enhance Hoi An’s local cuisine. Explore the lush vegetable gardens, learn about the unique seaweed-based fertilizing methods, and hear the history of this special village.

Join local farmers in their daily tasks, such as tilling soil, planting, or harvesting. Depending on the season, you’ll engage in authentic farming activities while discovering the deep connection between the locals and their land, offering a true glimpse into Vietnamese countryside life.

Meals: Breakfast
Stay overnight in Hoi An

Your journey begins with a transfer from your hotel in Hoi An to Da Nang Airport for a flight to Ho Chi Minh City.

Ho Chi Minh City, formerly and still commonly known as Saigon, is the most populous city in Vietnam. Vibrating with energy and innovation, the city is the economic heart of Vietnam and the main hub of the southern region. As a cosmopolitan metropolis of the country, its dynamic cityscape combining the old and the new of Vietnam has made it one of the most attractive destination for visitors.

Upon arrival, take a half-day tour to explore the Cu Chi Tunnels, located 75 km northwest of downtown Ho Chi Minh City. These hand-dug tunnels served as an extensive underground hideout and resistance base for Viet Cong forces during the wars against the French and Americans. The intricate network spans over 120 km, stretching to the Cambodian border.

The tunnels include multilevel passageways featuring meeting rooms, kitchens, wells, clinics, schools, storage depots, trenches, and emergency exits. Built for guerrilla warfare, they were designed to withstand bombings and prolonged sieges, demonstrating the resourcefulness and resilience of the Viet Cong force.

After exploring this historic site, return to Ho Chi Minh City.

Meals: Breakfast
Stay overnight in Ho Chi Minh City

Start your day with a transfer from Ho Chi Minh City to Vinh Long, a vibrant hub in the Mekong Delta. 

The program will start with a quick visit of Cai Be town & the ancient church from the boat. Then, we’ll come to Tân Phong island for the rowing boat. They will take you deeper into the countryside on smaller canals to enjoy the peaceful time under the shade of mangrove trees. Stop at local garden to enjoy some fruits with hot tea when listening to the traditional music.

Then, start the biking trip on village paths to see the local daily life: orchard, school, church, pagoda, traditional houses... On the way, we can make some stops to see how they wave the dried water-hyacinth to make many products: baskets, bags, hats, wallets, shoes... (You can walk, but see less). 

Back to our boat to go across one of the longest rivers in the world, Mekong River, to come to An Bình Island. Lunch can be served on boat / at homestay

After lunch, check in at Út Trinh / Út Quỳnh / Út Bình homestay. Have biking trip or walking around the local village, stop at local workshop to see how to make rice paper, coconut candy, pop-rice... Enjoy some sweets with a cup of hot tea.

Have a fresh shower before cooking some special dishes with the members of local family. We’ll enjoy dinner & overnight at homestay. 

Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
Stay overnight in Vinh Long 

Have breakfast and check-out for a walk along the village to enjoy the fresh air in the morning. Check out and say goodbye to Út Trinh family. Boat trip to visit the brick kilns where you can see how the local people create beautiful potteries from clay. Our boat will go along the floating village. We will see how to farm catfish on MêKong River.  

Also, we can visit VinhLong market in the town. This is the best choice for you to take pictures of fish, shrimps, prawns, crabs, snakes, rice-field rats, tropical fruits, vegetables... The cruise will end at the new boat station in Vinh Long city. Get on the car to transfer back to Ho Chi Minh City. Check in hotel & relax

In the evening, at 18:30, boarding on the traditional cruise and start cruising along the river. Entertain yourself with live traditional music shows and dances while indulging on a wide selection of fresh & homemade dishes presented on interactive buffet stations. After dinner, relax on the deck and enjoy the panoramic view of the city lights past by some famous landmarks such as Bitexco tower – the highest building in town. After 2 hour cruising, disembark and transfer back to hotel at 9:30 PM

Meals: Breakfast, Dinner
Stay overnight in Ho Chi Minh City

Our tour guide will meet and pick you up at your hotel to transfer to Tan Son Nhat International Airport in air-conditioned vehicle.

Meals: Breakfast