Wow Vietnam: An emotional 14-day journey

Let’s embark on a morning stroll through Hanoi’s enchanting Old French Quarter.

You’ll begin our journey at the Ly Thai To Statue, paying homage to the city’s founder and delving into its rich historical tapestry. Next, you’ll explore the iconic Ba Dinh Square, the birthplace of the Socialist Republic of Vietnam. You’ll admire the architectural marvels of the Ho Chi Minh Mausoleum, Uncle Ho’s stilt house, and the one-pillar pagoda.

Our journey continues to the Hanoi Saint Joseph Cathedral, a stunning neo-gothic masterpiece that reflects the French colonial influence. You’ll then venture down the vibrant Train Street, witnessing the harmonious blend of daily life and railway tracks.

To conclude our morning tour, you’ll unwind at a cozy local coffee shop, savoring a cup of Vietnam’s renowned coffee while reminiscing about the day’s experiences. Don’t forget to indulge in a delectable lunch of Cha Ca or Ngan Chay Toi!

In the late afternoon, you start your walking tour at Hanoi’s largest covered market, Dong Xuan. Along the market’s perimeter, dozens of street hawkers sell a staggering variety of produce from live seafood to exotic fruits and spices. Your expert English-speaking local guide will give you an insight into the intricacies and traditions of Vietnamese food culture including details on the ingredients and historical backgrounds of popular northern dishes. Step out of the market and back onto the streets in search of more daily snacks of local which are displayed along the roadside. Stop to taste a piece of fresh spring roll or a crispy pancake before wandering through narrow streets to the corner with the full flavor of bun cha, fresh rice noodles with grilled pork. Continue to savor the Vietnamese dessert with traditional sweet cakes made from some kind of local herb or a little cup of fresh fruit mixed with greasy coconut milk. With a better understanding of Hanoi street food, return to the hotel.

Overnight in Hanoi.

Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner

Accommodation: Anatole Hanoi 4* Hotel or Grand Peridot 5* Luxury Boutique Hotel

Ha Noi Temple of Literature

Your Sapa Eco limousine and driver will meet you in your hotel lobby. Today, you’ll embark on a scenic journey to Sapa, following the Noi Bai – Lao Cai Highway. Along the way, you’ll have the opportunity to admire the breathtaking beauty of the northwest mountains, with terraced fields shimmering in the sunlight or shrouded in mist. Enjoy a short 15-minute break before continuing your journey to Sapa.

Arrive in Sapa town center. Your driver will drop you off at your hotel lobby, where you can leave your luggage at the reception. Meet your tour guide and head out for lunch.

In the afternoon, embark on a captivating exploration of Ham Rong Mountain and the Stone Church, iconic landmarks in Sapa town. Indulge in a rejuvenating local spa experience. A traditional herbal bath is a perfect way to unwind after a day of adventure. In Red Dao communities, these baths are used to aid postpartum recovery, soothe muscle and bone aches, and ward off winter illnesses. Modern wellness practices recognize the benefits of hydrotherapy and aromatherapy in improving blood circulation, calming the mind, and relieving physical discomfort. The herbal bath gently detoxifies pores and nourishes the skin.

Overnight in Sapa.

Meals: Breakfast, Lunch

Accommodation: Pistachio Hotel 4* Sapa or Silk Path Grand Sapa 5* Resort & Spa

Our adventure begins at 7:30 AM when your guide picks you up from your Sa Pa accommodation. A scenic 110-kilometer drive will take you to the vibrant Bac Ha Market, where you’ll arrive around 10:45 AM.

This bustling Sunday market is a cultural melting pot, attracting various ethnic groups from the surrounding highlands. Witness the lively exchange of goods, from fresh produce to livestock. As you wander through the colorful stalls, you’ll encounter the distinctive attire and customs of the Mong, Tay, Nung, and Dao people.

After exploring the market’s vibrant atmosphere, your journey continues to Pho Village, a quaint settlement of the Mong flower people. Here, you’ll gain insights into their daily life and traditions during a 20-minute village walk.

Your day concludes with a visit to the Ha Khau border gate, offering a unique perspective on the Sino-Vietnamese border. Before returning to Sa Pa at 5:00 PM, you’ll also admire the serene Mau Temple.

Overnight in Sapa.

Meals: Breakfast, Lunch

Accommodation: Pistachio Hotel 4* Sapa or Silk Path Grand Sapa 5* Resort & Spa

Sa Pa Hoang Lien Son National Park waterfall

Check out of your hotel and meet your knowledgeable local guide and experienced driver in the lobby. Your adventure begins as you venture into the scenic landscapes of Sapa.

Descend into the serene Y Linh Ho village, nestled along the banks of the Muong Hoa River. Immerse yourself in the rich tapestry of Black H’mong culture. Witness firsthand their unwavering commitment to preserving their heritage, as evidenced by their distinctive indigo-hued attire and traditional way of life. Explore their quaint villages, marvel at their intricate handicrafts, and gain insights into their unique customs and beliefs.

Continue your journey to the picturesque Ta Van village, home to the Zay minority group. Discover their harmonious coexistence with nature as you wander through their idyllic surroundings. Admire the women’s vibrant traditional clothing, a testament to their cultural identity. If you visit during the idyllic months of May to October, you’ll have the privilege of witnessing the local community’s dedication to agriculture as they tend to the breathtaking rice terraces of the Muong Hoa Valley.

After a morning filled with unforgettable experiences, relax on the scenic drive back to your hotel in Sapa. There is some time to spend at leisure for lunch and a last-minute exploration of Sapa town. Mid-afternoon, you will drive back to Hanoi.

Overnight in Hanoi.

Meals: Breakfast, Lunch

Accommodation: Anatole Hanoi 4* Hotel or Grand Peridot 5* Luxury Boutique Hotel

One of Vietnam’s most symbolic images is the landscape of Halong Bay, where thousands of limestone islands protrude bizarrely from the emerald sea. To experience this beautiful Halong Bay, taking an overnight cruise is the best idea. 

Your day begins with a convenient limousine pickup at 8:30 AM, whisking you away to the heart of Halong Bay. Upon arrival at Tuan Chau Marina at noon, you’ll be warmly welcomed aboard the luxurious Peony Cruises. After a brief itinerary overview, you’ll embark on a scenic cruise, savoring a delectable lunch as you admire the breathtaking landscapes of Lan Ha Bay.

The afternoon invites exploration, with kayaking through the serene Tra Bau area or simply relaxing in the Jacuzzi pool. As the sun begins to set, you’ll have the opportunity to learn the art of Vietnamese spring roll making or witness the stunning sunset from the top deck.

Evening brings a delightful dinner, followed by relaxation time. You can unwind with cocktails at the sky bar, indulge in a rejuvenating spa treatment, or try your hand at squid fishing. As the day concludes, you’ll retire to your cozy cabin, lulled by the gentle lapping of the waves.

Overnight on the luxury cruise.

Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner

Accommodation: Peony Cruise or La Regina Royal Cruise

Ha Long Bay kayaking

Begin your day with a serene Tai Chi session, watching the sunrise paint the sky with hues of gold and pink.

After a nourishing breakfast cruise, embark on a captivating journey to Cat Ba World Biosphere Reserve. Explore the awe-inspiring Trung Trang Cave, marveling at its intricate stalactite formations and unique ecosystem. Following this subterranean adventure, enjoy a leisurely lunch before disembarking and transferring back to Tuan Chau Marina.

Arrive at Tuan Chau port, Your private driver is waiting for you at the dock to send you back to Noi Bai Airport. Today, you will make your flight to Da Nang/ Hoi An. You will be collected upon your arrival at the airport, and soon settled into your comfortable accommodation.

Overnight in Hoi An.

Meals: Light breakfast, Brunch 

Accommodation: RiverTown Hoi An 4* Resort &Spa OR Bel Marina Hoi An 5* Resort

Ha Long Bay landscape view in sunset

Your day begins with a guided tour of Hoi An’s historic center. Explore the bustling Hoi An Market, a vibrant hub of colors and scents. Immerse yourself in the rich cultural heritage of the city by visiting the Phuc Kien Chinese Assembly Hall and admiring the intricate architecture of ancient houses like the Phung Hung or Tan Ky. Delve into the past at the Museum of Folk Culture and witness traditional performances at the Hoi An Traditional Performing Arts House. After a leisurely stroll across the iconic Japanese Bridge, you’ll have the opportunity to discover local handicrafts and immerse yourself in the charming alleyways of Hoi An. As the day winds down, you’ll participate in a lantern-making class, crafting your own unique souvenir.

Enjoy a delicious lunch at a local restaurant before returning to your hotel for a well-deserved rest. The remainder of the afternoon is yours to explore Hoi An at your own pace.

Overnight in Hoi An.

Meals: Breakfast, Lunch.

Accommodation: RiverTown Hoi An 4* Resort &Spa OR Bel Marina Hoi An 5* Resort

Hoi An ancient town

At 8 am The tour starts by cycling along level ground to the Thu Bon River to visit a local fishing village.

Ride along country lanes at a peaceful pace viewing local life and pausing to see farmers toiling in their rice fields using centuries of farming practices. Peddle your way through palm forests, bridges, and fields of water buffalo. Take a short break with a local family at Cam Thanh Village before enjoying a 1.5-hour ride on a Traditional Wooden Boat in the Water Coconut Palm Forest. Learn how to sail the basket boat and spend your time catching fish and “purple crabs” in the Canal.

Continue to ride our bike to Tra Que Organic Vegetable Village where a large variety of vegetables are produced for the local community. At the village, you will be shown the environmentally sustainable practices the local villagers have used for centuries and are still being used extensively. Enjoy a cooking class for the traditional food of Hoi An then sit down for a delicious lunch.

After lunch, you cycle back to the hotel, the afternoon is free at your leisure.

Overnight in Hoi An.

Meals: Breakfast, Lunch

Accommodation: RiverTown Hoi An 4* Resort & Spa OR Bel Marina Hoi An 5* Resort

Following a leisurely breakfast, your private guide will meet you and escort you in a private vehicle on a scenic journey (approximately 4 hours) to the historic city of Hue.

Along the way, you’ll pause to explore the captivating Marble Mountains, marvel at the intricate stone carvings of Non-Nuoc Village, and bask in the sun on the iconic My Khe Beach, once frequented by American soldiers. Your journey will then ascend the majestic Hai Van Pass, offering breathtaking panoramic views of the coastline and mountains.

Arriving in Hue after midday, you’ll savor a delicious lunch at a local restaurant. Afterward, embark on a captivating exploration of the Hue Imperial City. Delve into the heart of the ancient Citadel, once the seat of the Nguyen Dynasty, and wander through the atmospheric Imperial Palace.

In the late afternoon, visit the unique Khai Dinh Tomb, a fascinating blend of traditional Vietnamese and European architectural styles.

Overnight in Hue

Meals: Breakfast, Lunch

Accommodation: Êmm Hue 4* Hotel or aNhill 5* Luxury Boutique Resort

Hue Imperial City

In the morning, your professional guide-rider will pick you up from your hotel and ride to Thanh Toan, a 300-year-old bridge in the countryside of Hue. You have the chance to visit a village market where people buy and sell their fresh produce and learn about a farming technique that has been passed down for generations in a farmer’s family. The ride continues to take us through small alleys and backstreets to one of the oldest pagodas in Hue before taking us to Indochine and the conical hat village. Later in our trip today, you’ll hop off the bike for a short walk to the old war bunkers on top of a hill to have a panoramic view of the Perfume River. After our tour, we’ll enjoy a wonderful lunch at a restaurant on a quaint riverbank with the best local cuisine.

After the tour, you are transferred to Phu Bai airport for a short flight to Ho Chi Minh City, the country’s commercial capital. You are met at the airport by your private transfer and taken to your selected accommodation, located within the center of the city.

Overnight in Ho Chi Minh City.

Meals: Breakfast, Lunch.

Accommodation: La Siesta Premium Saigon Luxury Boutique Hotel or Lotte Saigon 5* Hotel

Hue Conical Hat village

After a hearty breakfast, embark on a journey to the Cu Chi Tunnels, a testament to the resilience of the Vietnamese people. Explore the intricate network of underground tunnels, witness the ingenuity of the Viet Cong, and learn about the harsh realities of war. Following this immersive experience, return to Ho Chi Minh City for a delicious lunch.

In the afternoon, immerse yourself in the city’s rich history and vibrant culture. Visit iconic landmarks like the Notre Dame Cathedral, the City Hall, and the Central Post Office. Delve into the past at the Reunification Palace and experience spiritual serenity at the Jade Emperor Pagoda. Conclude the day with panoramic city views from the top of the Bitexco Tower, a fitting end to an unforgettable day.

Overnight in Ho Chi Minh City.

Meals: Breakfast, Lunch.

Accommodation: La Siesta Premium Saigon Luxury Boutique Hotel or Lotte Saigon 5* Hotel

Ho Chi Minh city Cu Chi tunnel

The ‘rice bowl of Vietnam’; the Mekong Delta is essential to Vietnamese agriculture. As the mighty Mekong River approaches the coast at the end of its journey from China, it begins to spread out into myriad tributaries that bring life to the whole region. Explore these big and small tributaries, and witness a life lived almost entirely on water!

Start your day with a hotel pick-up at 8 AM, escaping the bustling city for a serene journey to Ben Tre. Upon arrival at Ham Luong Pier, embark on a boat cruise along the scenic Ben Tre River, witnessing the vibrant river life, including fishing and water transfers. Immerse yourself in the local culture by visiting a traditional brickyard, where you’ll learn about the age-old process of brick-making. Next, explore a coconut processing workshop to discover the various uses of this versatile fruit.

Continue your adventure through narrow canals to a local village, where you’ll witness the production of sleep mats and savor fresh tropical fruits and tea. After a leisurely bike ride through picturesque rice fields and vegetable gardens, indulge in a delicious lunch at a local restaurant.

In the afternoon, enjoy a peaceful rowing boat trip along a water palm creek before returning to Hung Vuong Pier and heading back to Ho Chi Minh City.

Overnight in Ho Chi Minh City.

Meals: Breakfast, Lunch.

Accommodation: La Siesta Premium Saigon Luxury Boutique Hotel or Lotte Saigon 5* Hotel

Ben Tre boat trip in palm trees village

The morning is at your leisure, allowing you to venture back into the city for one last visit to the Old City. You’ll soon arrive at the airport and be prepared for your flight back home thanks to your private transfer.

Meals: Breakfast.

Ho Chi Minh city landscape view