10-Day North & Central Vietnam Scenic Train Journey: Hanoi, Ninh Binh, Hue & Hoi An

Highlights: Confucian Heritage, Ethnic Insight, and Water Puppets

Morning of Scholarly Grandeur: Begin your day by exploring the Temple of Literature (Van Mieu), Vietnam's first national university, established in the 11th century. Walk through its beautiful gardens, admire the Khue Van Cac (Constellation of Literature), and stand before the World Heritage "stone steles" that immortalize the names of Vietnam’s most brilliant scholars.

Cultural Deep Dive: Next, we delve into the diversity of Vietnam at the Ethnology Museum (closed Mondays). Spend two immersive hours gaining a deep insight into the country's 54 ethnic groups through their traditional houses, vibrant costumes, and unique musical instruments—a genuine appreciation of Vietnamese heritage.

French Quarter Contrast: The afternoon takes you to the French Quarter, often called "Little Paris," with its elegant tree-lined boulevards and colonial architecture. You’ll walk through the Ho Chi Minh Complex, respectfully viewing the Mausoleum (outside), the Presidential Palace, and Ho Chi Minh’s humble house on stilts, concluding at the unique One-Pillar Pagoda.

Evening Delight: Conclude the day with a cherished Vietnamese tradition: a mesmerizing water puppet show. Watch the daily life and legends of the delta come to life on the water stage, accompanied by traditional music—a truly unique cultural performance.

• Included: English Speaking Guide, Meal (B), Transportation, Entrance Fees, Water Puppet Show, Mineral Water.

Location: Hanoi - Ninh Binh - Hanoi

Highlights: Thung La Temple, Van Long Boat Trip, and Traditional Embroidery

The Red River Delta's Beauty: After breakfast, we transfer from Hanoi, driving south through the stunning Red River Delta, where lush rice and vegetable fields paint a picturesque countryside.

Active Discovery & Authentic Connection: Upon arrival in Ninh Binh, you have the option to take a breathtaking 15km bike ride (or walk) along the dyke. This journey offers gorgeous, unobstructed landscapes of karst mountains and rice fields. You'll walk to the ancient Thung La Temple, where you’ll meet Mr. Tuong, the temple guardian, for an authentic conversation and a unique 20-minute drum show .

The Tranquil "Land Halong": Your highlight is a serene sampan boat trip into the heart of Van Long Nature Reserve. Drift silently among the towering limestone mountains, feeling the absolute peace of this preserved wetland. Keep your eyes peeled—if luck is on your side, you might spot rare white monkeys and egrets on the cliffs.

Hands-on Craft: Conclude your day with a visit to a local embroidery village. Under the guidance of craftswoman Mrs. Lam, take part in an embroidery course—a wonderful opportunity to practice this traditional craft on fabric and create a personal keepsake.

• Included: English Speaking Guide, Meal (B, L), Boat (Van Long), Transportation, Entrance Fees, Bike (Ninh Binh), Thung La Temple Music, Mineral Water.

Location: Hanoi - Hai Phong - Lan Ha Bay

Highlights: Luxury Cruising, Hidden Bay Kayaking, and Sunset Cooking Class

The Route to Paradise: We leave Hanoi for a comfortable two-and-a-half-hour drive to the coast, passing through the beautiful landscapes of the Red River Delta.

Welcome Aboard Peony Cruises: Around noon, you’ll be warmly welcomed at Tuan Chau Port to board the luxurious Peony Cruises. Settle into your Deluxe Balcony Cabin and enjoy a fresh welcome drink before indulging in a special lunch featuring fresh local delicacies, as we set sail into the magnificent Lan Ha Bay—a quieter, pristine extension of Halong Bay.

Kayaking Conquest: In the afternoon, we drop anchor at the secluded Tra Bau area, famous for its unspoiled natural beauty. This is your chance to truly conquer the bay by kayaking through the emerald green waters, navigating hidden limestone islands, and feeling the sheer isolation of this seascape. Alternatively, relax in the cruise's Jacuzzi pool.

Sunset & Skills: As the sun dips, join a cooking demonstration to learn the art of making fresh Vietnamese spring rolls. Admire the magnificent sunset over the Gulf of Tonkin during Happy Hour (Buy One Get One Free). End the perfect day with an intimate, delicious dinner prepared by the onboard chef, followed by optional squid fishing or drinks at the sky bar.

• Accommodation: Peony Cruise - 2D1N (Deluxe Balcony Cabin)

• Included: Shuttle Bus, English Speaking Guide (on board), Meal (B, L, D), Entrance Fees, Kayaking, Leisure (Swimming, Squid fishing), Cooking Class, Mineral Water.

Location: Lan Ha Bay - Hue

Highlights: Tai Chi Sunrise, Trung Trang Cave Exploration, and Overnight Rail Journey

Dawn Energy: Begin your day with a refreshing Tai Chi session on the sundeck as the sun rises over the limestone peaks—a moment of pure energy and stillness. Enjoy a light breakfast as the cruise glides back toward the mainland.

Cat Ba's Secrets: We visit Trung Trang Cave on Cat Ba Island, a spectacular limestone cave in the Cat Ba World Biosphere. Wander through the cave, marveling at the thousands of oddly shaped stalactites and the typical cave ecosystem—a geological masterpiece.

Back to the City: Check out of your cabin and enjoy an early lunch before disembarking at Tuan Chau Port. Our driver will meet you for the comfortable two-and-a-half-hour drive back to your hotel in Hanoi’s Old Quarter.

The Call of the Rail: In the evening, prepare for the romantic highlight of your tour: a transfer to Hanoi Train Station to board the traditional, overnight SE3 train to Hue. Settle into your comfortable Deluxe Cabin (4 berths) and let the rhythmic click-clack of the rails lull you to sleep as you journey from the dynamic North to the imperial heart of Central Vietnam.

• Included: English Speaking Guide (on board), Meal (B, L), Transportation, Entrance Fees, Morning Tai Chi, Mineral Water, Train: SE3 (Hanoi - Hue) - Deluxe Cabin.

Location: Hue

Highlights: Perfume River Cruise, Craft Villages, Thien Mu Pagoda, and Hue Citadel

Imperial Welcome: Arrive at Hue Railway Station in the morning. Your local guide and driver will meet you and transfer you to begin your full-day city discovery.

Poetic River and Village Life: We embark on a Royal boat trip along the beautiful Perfume River (Huong River). Disembark at Tien Non village for an incredible bike ride through three villages (Tien Non, Thanh Tien, and Sinh), immersing you in the authentic daily rhythm of rural life.

• In Thanh Tien village (400 years old), you'll meet artisan Mr. Hieu to learn the art of making artificial paper flowers.

• In Sinh village, meet Mr. Phuoc, who will explain the ancient techniques of 400-year-old traditional folk prints. This is your chance for unprecedented meetings and to find beautiful, authentic souvenirs .

Spiritual and Historical Heights: In the afternoon, visit the iconic Thien Mu Pagoda, Hue’s spiritual symbol, famous for its majestic octagon tower and stunning view over the river. Afterward, explore the Hue Citadel (Kinh Thanh), the only vestige of Vietnam's former Imperial City. Wander through the Imperial City and the Forbidden Purple City, imagining the lives of emperors and court officials.

• Accommodation: Rosaleen Boutique Hotel (Deluxe Double Room) or similar

• Included: English Speaking Guide, Meal (B), Boat, Transportation, Entrance Fees, Bike (Hue), Mineral Water.

Location: Hue - Hoi An

Highlights: Khai Dinh Tomb, Hai Van Pass Drive, Cham Museum, and Hoi An Ancient Town Tour

Royal Farewell: Your day begins with a visit to Khai Dinh King's Tomb. Marvel at this unique tomb, which stands apart from others due to its dramatic mixture of oriental and western architectural styles. Ascend the hundred steps to the worship palace and discover the breathtaking decoration with delightful porcelain fragments.

Conquering the Sea Clouds: We then embark on one of the world's most scenic drives: the Hai Van Pass (Sea Cloud Pass). Stop at the summit to capture breathtaking, panoramic views of the ocean and Da Nang city—a true feeling of conquest over the mountains.

Ancient Civilization & Coastline: In Da Nang, visit the Cham Museum, preserving the world’s most significant collection of Cham culture sculptures. Enjoy the view of the coastline, including the enormous Goddess of Mercy statue at Linh Ung Pagoda, before driving along the coast to Hoi An.

Hoi An's Magic: In the afternoon, explore the UNESCO World Heritage Old Town. Walk leisurely through the well-preserved streets, visiting the iconic Japanese Covered Bridge (Chua Cau), the historic Quan Thang Ancient House, and the colorful Fujian Assembly Hall (Phuc Kien). Feel the undeniable charm and history of this ancient trading port.

• Accommodation: Delicacy Hotel & Spa (Deluxe City View Room) or similar

• Included: English Speaking Guide, Meal (B, L), Transportation, Entrance Fees, Mineral Water.

Location: Hoi An

Highlights: Kim Bong Carving, Basket Boat Crabbing, and Medicinal Foot Massage

Artisan Cycling: We begin cycling to Hoi An pier and take a ferry across the Thu Bon River to Kim Bong Village, famous for its wood carving. Bike through the village, visit a carpenter's workshop, and admire the unique blend of Northern, Chinese, and Japanese sculpting techniques—a testament to cross-cultural exchange.

Authentic Local Encounters: Continue cycling through rice paddies to Tra Nhieu village, where you will meet local artisans: Ms. Duoc (mat weaving), Mr. Kha (bamboo sampan basket making), and Mr. Huynh Ri (shipyard craftsman). This is where you feel the genuine warmth of the local community.

Basket Boat Fun: From Tra Nhieu, take a boat to Cam Thanh village and board a small, round bamboo sampan basket boat. Enjoy the relaxing thrill of crab catching within the lush water palm forest—a pure moment of joy and connection with nature!

Relaxation & Culinary Skill: Take a well-deserved rest at a fisherman's house, enjoy green tea, and receive a soothing foot massage with medicinal herbs from their garden. Finally, join a hands-on cooking practice to create typical regional dishes like crispy pancakes and Hoi An spring rolls, which you will enjoy for lunch.

• Accommodation: Delicacy Hotel & Spa (Deluxe City View Room) or similar

• Included: English Speaking Guide, Meal (B, L), Boat, Entrance Fees, Bike (Hoi An), Leisure (Foot massage), Cooking Class, Mineral Water.

Location: Hoi An - My Son - Hoi An

Highlights: Champa Kingdom Ruins, Architecture & Traditional Dance

Journey to the Past: Spend a half-day with an excursion to the sacred valley of the Champa Kingdom. Located 40km from Hoi An, My Son is a UNESCO World Heritage site that served as the most important religious center between the 7th and 13th centuries.

Unraveling the Mystery: Your guide will lead you through the site’s 70 ruined brick and stone architectural works, explaining the profound cultural, historical, and architectural values of this ancient civilization. Feel the mystery as you explore the jungle-shrouded temples.

Cultural Finale: Before leaving the sanctuary, enjoy an enriching traditional Champa dancing show, bringing the spirit of this lost kingdom to life. Return to Hoi An in the afternoon with time to enjoy the lantern-lit streets one last time.

• Included: English Speaking Guide, Meal (B, L), Transportation, Entrance Fees, Mineral Water.

Location: Hoi An - Da Nang

Highlights: Farewell and Transfer to Da Nang Airport

Seamless Conclusion: Enjoy your final Vietnamese breakfast. Our driver will meet you at your hotel and provide a comfortable, timely transfer to Da Nang International Airport for your onward flight, carrying with you the indelible memories of your 10-day rail adventure.

• Included: English Speaking Guide, Meal (B), Transportation, Mineral Water.