Colours of Vietnam – From Old Quarter to Mekong Delta

Embark on a full-day exploration of Hanoi’s rich heritage, beginning at the Vietnam Museum of Ethnology. Here, you’ll gain insight into the diverse cultures of Vietnam’s 54 ethnic groups through fascinating artifacts, traditional houses, and immersive audiovisual exhibits.

Next, step back in time at the Temple of Literature – Vietnam’s first university, founded in 1070. This serene Confucian sanctuary honors scholars and sages with its elegant courtyards and ancient stone stelae.

In the afternoon, visit the Ho Chi Minh Complex, a place of deep national significance. Walk through Ba Dinh Square, see the Presidential Palace and the humble stilt house where Ho Chi Minh lived, and visit the unique One Pillar Pagoda – an 11th-century symbol of compassion rising like a lotus from the water.

Choose to continue with a visit to Hoa Lo Museum, a historic prison site, or unwind at the poetic Hoan Kiem Lake. Cross the iconic red bridge to Ngoc Son Temple, nestled on a small island, and immerse yourself in the legend of the returned sacred sword.

This thoughtfully curated day offers a meaningful glimpse into Hanoi’s soul – where ancient traditions meet modern history.

Meals: Breakfast

Stay overnight in Hanoi

Your guide will meet you at your hotel for the scenic journey to Ninh Binh—a landscape of breathtaking limestone peaks often referred to as “Halong Bay on Land.” The drive takes approximately two hours through lush, rural scenery.

Your first stop is the UNESCO World Heritage Site of Trang An, where you’ll board a traditional sampan for a peaceful journey along serene rivers, through mystical caves, and among dramatic karst formations. Glide into hidden valleys where the only sounds are the dip of the oar and calls of native birds and wildlife.

Later, challenge yourself with a climb up the steps of Mua Cave to the summit of Ngoa Long Mountain. Your effort will be rewarded with unforgettable panoramic views of the Tam Coc river system and patchwork rice fields stretching to the horizon.

You’ll spend the evening in Ninh Binh, surrounded by the quiet beauty of the Vietnamese countryside.

Meals: Breakfast 

Stay overnight in Ninh Binh

Immerse yourself in the authentic rhythms of rural Vietnam on this unique hands-on experience. Work alongside local farmers in the stunning landscape of Ninh Binh, participating in traditional activities like riding a water buffalo, planting rice, and fishing with unique local tools. Explore the natural beauty of Buffalo Cave and its refreshing waterfall, then enjoy a cooking class to turn the day's fresh ingredients into a delicious meal. This is a truly unforgettable way to connect with the land and its people.

Meals: Breakfast

Stay overnight in Ninh Binh

After breakfast, enjoy a comfortable private transfer to the spectacular Halong Bay. Upon boarding your traditional junk boat, you will be welcomed with a delicious lunch as you begin cruising among the bay's iconic limestone formations.

Spend your afternoon kayaking, exploring stunning caves, or simply relaxing on the sundeck and soaking in the breathtaking views. As the sun sets, your boat will anchor in a serene spot amidst the dramatic karsts. The day concludes with a delightful dinner served on board under the stars.

Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner

Stay overnight on Ha Long Bay Cruise

Awaken to the gentle rhythm of the boat amidst the serene limestone formations of Halong Bay. Savor a final meal on board—a light breakfast or brunch—as you take in the last breathtaking views during the peaceful cruise back to the harbor. After disembarking, begin your journey back to Hanoi.

Later, we will escort you to the airport for your short flight to Da Nang. On arrival, you'll be greeted and chauffeured through the picturesque landscapes to your awaiting hotel in the timeless and captivating Hoi An.

Meals: Breakfast, Brunch

Stay overnight in Hoi An

Embark on a scenic drive from your hotel to the foot of Bà Nà Hills, passing along the picturesque coastal road of Đà Nẵng. Upon arrival, board the record-breaking cable car—holding two Guinness World Records—and ascend through lush forests to the mountaintop.

Your first highlight is the iconic Golden Bridge, held aloft by two colossal stone hands and offering breathtaking panoramic views. Continue exploring the floral Le Jardin d’Amour, the ancient Linh Ứng Pagoda with its majestic Buddha statue, and the atmospheric ruins of French colonial villas.

Ride a second cable car to the summit of Chúa Mountain. Here, you’ll enjoy stunning views over Đà Nẵng and explore natural wonders like the Rainbow Waterfall and Golden Valley. Keep an eye out for playful monkeys along the way.

Later, journey to the enchanting ancient town of Hội An. Wander through its lantern-lined streets and visit key sites such as the ornate Phúc Kiến Assembly Hall, a 200-year-old merchant’s house, and the historic Japanese Covered Bridge. Discover local crafts in charming shops and galleries before enjoying a peaceful boat ride on the Hoài River, where you can release a flower lantern for good fortune.

Return to your Hoi An hotel in the evening, filled with memories of culture and natural beauty.

Meals: Breakfast

Stay overnight in Hoi An

Meet your guide at the hotel and begin a leisurely bicycle ride through Hoi An’s charming streets to the home of a local artisan family. For generations, they have preserved the beautiful craft of lantern making—a symbol of Hoi An’s cultural soul.

During this hands-on workshop, you’ll learn to create your own lantern using traditional techniques: shaping bamboo into a frame, selecting vibrant silk, and carefully assembling each part. Under the patient guidance of the hosts, you’ll craft a unique souvenir filled with personal meaning.

As the afternoon softens into evening, join a gentle boat trip along the Hoai River. Here, you’ll partake in a beloved local tradition—releasing a floating lantern onto the water—a beautiful gesture to bring luck and happiness to you and your loved ones.

Meals: Breakfast

Stay overnight in Hoi An

Your day begins with a gentle bicycle ride through the countryside to Tra Que Vegetable Village, renowned for supplying Hoi An’s freshest organic produce. Learn about traditional farming methods that use no chemicals, and join local farmers in hands-on activities—whether planting, watering, or harvesting—depending on the season. Gain insight into rural Vietnamese life and the community’s deep connection to the land.

Later, journey to Cam Thanh Coconut Village, where you’ll step into the role of a local fisherman. Master the art of rowing a unique round bamboo basket boat through serene water palm forests, and try your hand at traditional fishing techniques. This immersive experience offers a playful yet meaningful glimpse into the region’s coastal culture and timeless traditions.

Return to Hoi An with a deeper appreciation of the hard work, heritage, and natural abundance that define this charming part of Vietnam.

Meals: Breakfast

Stay overnight in Hoi An

Enjoy a leisurely breakfast at your hotel. The remainder of the day is yours to relax or explore at your own pace—whether that means revisiting a favorite spot, discovering hidden gems, or simply unwinding.

Meals: Breakfast

Stay overnight in Hoi An

After breakfast at the hotel, you will be transferred to the airport for your flight to Ho Chi Minh City. Upon arrival, our guide will greet you and escort you to your centrally located hotel.

In the evening, enjoy a memorable dinner cruise along the Saigon River. Your guide will assist with transfer to the harbor, where you'll board the vessel for a delightful evening of dining and scenic views as the city lights begin to shimmer on the water.

Meals: Breakfast, Dinner

Stay overnight in Ho Chi Minh City

This morning, journey into the countryside to visit the remarkable Củ Chi Tunnels—an immense underground network that served as a strategic base during the Vietnam War. This hand-dug labyrinth, stretching over 120 kilometers, included living quarters, kitchens, hospitals, and command centers, showcasing the resilience and ingenuity of the Vietnamese people.

You’ll have the opportunity to crawl through a safely enlarged section of the tunnels, gaining a firsthand understanding of the conditions faced by soldiers and civilians. Learn about the clever camouflage, hidden entrances, and survival techniques that allowed the community to endure.

Return to Ho Chi Minh City by midday, with the rest of your afternoon free to reflect or continue exploring.

Meals: Breakfast

Stay overnight in Ho Chi Minh City

After breakfast, journey to Cái Bè and step into a world of timeless traditions. Begin at the vibrant floating market, where boats brim with fresh produce and local goods—a captivating spectacle of Delta life.

Continue to Tân Phong Island, where a leisurely bike ride or walk along shaded village paths reveals the authentic rhythm of rural Vietnam. Observe farmers harvesting fruit using ancestral methods, and visit local craft workshops to see skilled artisans making rice paper, weaving coconut leaves into roofing, and creating beautiful handicrafts from water hyacinth.

Enjoy a stroll through a tranquil Mekong garden, sampling fresh tropical fruits while listening to the melodic sounds of traditional music. A short boat ride then brings you to a charming riverside spot where a delicious lunch awaits, featuring regional specialties.

This afternoon, glide along narrow, peaceful canals by rowboat, passing stilt houses and observing farmers tending to their fields and waterways. You’ll even have a chance to try traditional fishing methods yourself.

The day concludes with a warm welcome at Ut Trinh Homestay. Join your hosts in preparing a flavorful Delta dinner using fresh local ingredients, then share the meal together as you learn about their way of life. Enjoy an evening of stories and relaxation in this serene riverside setting.

Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner

Stay overnight at Ut Trinh homestay

After breakfast, take a peaceful stroll through the village, soaking in the fresh morning air and gentle rhythms of riverside life. Embark on a boat trip to visit local family workshops, where you’ll see how traditional Mekong products are made—from crispy rice paper and sweet coconut candy to fragrant pop-rice and popcorn.

The journey continues along the mighty Mekong River, passing floating fish farms and entering narrow, leafy canals lined with traditional brick kilns. Step ashore in a quiet village to observe craftspeople weaving bamboo trays and baskets, and shaping iconic Vietnamese conical hats by hand.

You’ll also have a chance to explore the vibrant Vĩnh Long Market—a photographer’s paradise filled with stacks of tropical fruit, fresh vegetables, and lively stalls selling fish, shrimp, and other local specialties.

Your cruise concludes in Vĩnh Long, followed by a comfortable transfer back to Ho Chi Minh City, filled with memories of the Mekong Delta’s timeless crafts and warm-hearted people.

Meals: Breakfast, Lunch

Stay overnight in Ho Chi Minh

Your private driver will meet you at your hotel in Ho Chi Minh City for a comfortable, scenic 2.5-hour drive to the coastal city of Vũng Tàu. Sit back and relax in your air-conditioned vehicle as you watch the vibrant urban landscape gradually give way to peaceful countryside and eventually, ocean views.

Meals: Breakfast

Stay overnight in Ho Tram

Enjoy a leisurely breakfast at your hotel. The remainder of the day is yours to relax or explore at your own pace—whether that means revisiting a favourite spot, discovering hidden gems, or simply unwinding.

Meals: Breakfast

Stay overnight in Ho Tram

Enjoy a leisurely breakfast at your hotel. The remainder of the day is yours to relax or explore at your own pace—whether that means revisiting a favorite spot, discovering hidden gems, or simply unwinding.

Meals: Breakfast

Stay overnight in Ho Tram

After breakfast at your hotel, you will be transferred to Tan Son Nhat Airport in Ho Chi Minh City in time for your departure flight. We wish you a pleasant journey home and hope the memories of your time in Vietnam stay with you long after you return.

Safe travels!

Meals: Breakfast