Exploring Vietnam's Heritage from North to South in 10 Days

Set out on a tour around Hanoi. We will trace its cultural and historical monuments as we drive along the tree-line avenues:

Our journey begins at the recently excavated Imperial Citadel of Thang Long, the first political stronghold of the millennial capital. Then move to the Temple of Literature – the first university of Vietnam under the Ly and Tran dynasties. This ancient site offers a chance to take photos of turtle steles, pavilions, courtyards, and passageways that were once used by royalty. 

Then together we head to Ba Dinh Square, the complex of the former Indochina Governor Palace, nestled close to Ho Chi Minh Mausoleum and his stilt house. Another highlight of the trip is the Vietnam Museum of Ethnology, which houses a diverse collection of 25,000 ancient and contemporary ethnic objects from all corners of Vietnam. 

After touring, we will enjoy the water puppet show which is recognized as a UNESCO Intangible Heritage.

As the night falls, it is your own time to stroll around the Old Square to witness the nocturnal life of Hanoians. Please feel free to taste some street food, take a sip of local beers or cocktails at the bars, and then indulge in the vivid colors of Hanoi at night.  

Overnight at the hotel in Hanoi.

Morning depart for Halong Bay by shuttle bus (without private guide), the most beautiful bay of Vietnam, one of the most beautiful landscapes of Asia. Located 180 km east of Hanoi, Halong is an expanse of water, about 1500 km². It is famous for thousands of limestone karsts of all shapes and sizes emerging from the emerald waters, with magnificent cellars eroded in the islands and islets over the centuries by the wind and the sea.  On arrival, welcome by cruise staff and embark with the shuttle boat for a short transfer (approximately 5 minutes) to the main cruise. Welcome cocktail and check-in on board. 

Savor your lunch aboard the cruise, drifting past captivating limestone karsts and a picturesque floating village. Later in the afternoon, weather permitting, take a refreshing swim and indulge in kayaking activities (Kayaking expenses are your responsibility). Don’t miss the chance to capture a breathtaking sunset scene on the bay. In the evening, dinner is served while the cruise is anchored in the quiet water area. Overnight on board.

Note: The itinerary and activities of the cruise may vary according to the proposed junks.

In the early morning, greet the morning as the first ray shines through thousands karst of the bay. We then visit caves of Halong Bay including the French-baptized “Surprise Cave”, study stalagmites and stalactites which date back thousands of years ago.  Have brunch on board.

Return to Hanoi at the end of the afternoon then transfer to the airport for your evening flight to Hue. Overnight at hotel in Hue. 

Note: The itinerary and activities of the cruise may vary according to the proposed junks.

Today is dedicated to exploring Hue, the last imperial capital of Vietnam from 1802 to 1945. Our journey will start with a visit to the Imperial City, the majestic residence and workplace of 13 Nguyen kings over 143 years. This architectural marvel was finally completed during the reign of Minh Mang, representing the largest structure ever built in modern Vietnamese history, involving thousands of skilled workers.

Next, we head to Gia Long Tomb, the resting place of the founder of the Nguyen Dynasty, and Minh Mang Emperor's tomb, known for his prolific legacy of fathering 142 royal offspring with 43 concubines.

Our tour continues with a visit to the garden houses in the residential area, specifically in Phu Mong village. These houses preserve the ancient royal heritage and artifacts, showcasing various garden types such as house gardens, tomb gardens, pagoda gardens, palace gardens, and royal gardens. The meticulously planned flower arrangements follow specific layering principles, ensuring a vibrant bloom throughout the year.

From the historic village, we travel along the Perfume River to explore Thien Mu Pagoda, the most visited pagoda in Hue, or Tu Hieu Pagoda, the burial site of the Nguyen Dynasty's eunuchs. If time allows, we will visit Dong Ba Market, Hue's largest and oldest market. 

Overnight at the hotel in Hue.

Setting sail for Hoi An, a small old town located 150 km south of Hue, following the off-the-beaten route along the wild coast of the eastern sea and the Cloud Pass. Several visits and stops are planned along this scenic journey

You can discover the beautiful bays of the turquoise water of Lang Co and Da Nang, and the long pristine beaches of Thuan An and Lang Co. Then enjoy the sights of large lagoons with local fish farms showcasing diverse fish farming methods.

Afterward, we reach the Cloud Pass, the highest pass in Central Vietnam, offering a panoramic view of the entire coastline of Da Nang.

As you traverse this route, take the chance to visit small factories and stores of melaleuca oil. The widely cultivated melaleuca in the area yields oil that is used by locals in the treatment of joint, respiratory, and digestive diseases.

A highlight of today's journey is the 'An Bang Ghost City,' a scenic cemetery along the road featuring stunning tombs resembling luxury castles carved in different Asian architectures. Delve into the original custom of 'Double burial,' where exhumation occurs 3 or 4 years after the initial burial. The bones are collected and placed in a terracotta coffin for eternal rest.

Arrive in Hoi An in the afternoon and overnight at the hotel.

We have a full day to enjoy the atmosphere of one of Vietnam’s most historical and romantic towns. Used to be a prominent port on the Central coast, Hoi An inherits the ancient architecture and a dreamy riverside setting that transports tourists back in time.

During this day, we will explore:

• Phuc Kien Temple: Although still referred to as an assembly hall, the buildings and grounds have been used as a temple to worship the goddess who protects fishermen and sailors by the descendants of Chinese families in Hoi An. It holds deep significance for the descendants of Chinese families in Hoi An.
• Phuc Thanh Pagoda: Dating back to 1454, this is the most ancient pagoda of its kind in Hoi An.
• Japanese Bridge: Built in 1593, this bridge connects the Chinese and Japanese areas in the town.
• Old Alleys and Ancient Houses: Witness the charm of centuries gone by in the narrow old alleys and visit ancient houses that stand as witnesses to the town's rich history.
• Silk and Lantern Shops: Explore shops where vibrant silk and lanterns can be found. You might be amazed by the speedy service for tailor-made clothes. It is a rare chance for you to buy clothes which are specially made in your size within just 24 hours.

In the afternoon, our exploration will continue with a visit to the Van Lang fish village and the Bay Mau coconut forest. Surrounded by canals, mangrove forests, and coconut palms, this area preserves its pure beauty. Either the route, crossing fields of rice or maize, lush gardens, friendly hamlets, handicraft factories, or boat-building workshops, offers picturesque photo stops and interesting visits.

Upon arrival at Van Lang village, hospitable boatmen will greet you warmly and guide you on an enchanting basket-boat excursion around the river amidst coconut trees. Admire the beautiful landscapes, relax, and even try your hand at shrimp catching techniques before coming back to the hotel.

Overnight in Hoi An.

In the morning, transfer to Da Nang International Airport for a flight to Ho Chi Minh City (formerly Saigon), the capital of the South. Upon arrival, be welcomed by our guide at the airport and then transfer to your hotel.

In the afternoon, we will go on a city tour passing by the landmarks of the city, which used to be called the 'Pearl of the Far East'. This includes the Cathedral of Notre Dame, built by the French in 1880 and the first basilica of Vietnam; the Central Post Office, an iconic symbol of Saigon with a mix of Gothic, Renaissance, and French architecture; Former Catinat Street (now Dong Khoi Street) with a score of restored French buildings; and the Headquarters of the People’s Committee of Chi Minh City (formerly Central Park), considered the most beautiful colonial building in the city.

If time permits, we will continue to visit the War Remnants Museum – showcasing Ho Chi Minh City’s history during the years of the American-Vietnamese War (1954-1975) – and the Museum of Traditional Vietnamese Medicine, where you can discover traditional Vietnamese medicine dating back more than 3000 years.

The tour concludes with Cho Lon (Chinatown), featuring the Temple of the Celestial Lady and Ben Thanh Market, the representative image of Ho Chi Minh City.

Overnight at the hotel in Ho Chi Minh City.

Depart for the Mekong Delta, a unique region that combines both land and water, situated in the southernmost part of Vietnam.

The region in southwestern Vietnam where the Mekong River approaches and empties into the sea through a network of distributaries.

• Upon arriving in Cai Be, start your Mekong boat journey. Explore the village and houses on stilts. Visit local workshops to see the production of coconut candy, pop rice, rice wine, and snake wine. Enjoy complimentary samples of these local delicacies and witness the daily life of Mekong locals.
• Experience a rowing sampan ride with locals and explore the small canals on Tan Phong Islet.
• After lunch, take a boat ride along the Mekong River to Vinh Long and make a stop to see traditional brick kilns and pottery making

Conclude the boat tour in Cai Be (Vinh Long) and proceed by car to Can Tho City.

Night in Can Tho.

Wake up early and journey to Can Tho, the capital of the delta. Upon arrival, set off on a boat adventure to explore the bustling Cai Rang Floating Market. Here, you'll witness a captivating scene as boats are brimming with fruits, vegetables, and a variety of goods, showcasing the unique "river trading" of the Mekong region.

Disembark for a visit to the An Binh land market located opposite Cai Rang, an opportunity to make an interesting comparison between the floating market and the land market. Transfer to Phong Dien, visit an orchard, then bike ride through small hamlets along the So Dua River. In the afternoon, return to Ho Chi Minh City.

You will be transferred to the airport for your departure flight.