10-Day Vietnam Heritage Journey: Hanoi, Halong Bay Cruise & Ancient Hoi An to Imperial Hue

The Promise: Traverse centuries of Vietnamese history, from ancient academia to revolutionary architecture.

Start your day by stepping back to the 11th century at the Temple of Literature (Van Mieu), Vietnam's First National University. Stroll through the tranquil gardens, admire the symbolic Khue Van Cac, and stand before the UNESCO-recognized Stone Steles—a testament to Vietnam's enduring reverence for knowledge.

Next, choose your intellectual adventure: delve into history at the National History Museum, reflect at the poignant Hoa Lo Prison (Hanoi Hilton), or explore Vietnamese diversity at the Museum of Ethnology.

The afternoon is dedicated to the French Quarter, often called "Little Paris," with its elegant boulevards and imposing colonial architecture. We pay our respects at the Ho Chi Minh Mausoleum (outside view) before a leisurely walk through the Botanical Gardens to the Presidential Palace and Ho Chi Minh’s Stilt House, offering intimate insight into the simple life of the nation's founder. Conclude your day at the unique One-Pillar Pagoda and enjoy the evening at a Water Puppet Show, a magical, unique performance born in the rice fields of the Red River Delta.

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

• Accommodation: Conifer Grand Hotel (Deluxe Room) or similar.

The Promise: Achieve ultimate tranquility gliding through the heart of the "Inland Halong Bay," connecting with the ancient dynasty's spirit.

We embark on a picturesque 2-hour drive to Ninh Binh, cruising through the painted rice and vegetable fields of the Red River Delta. Our first stop is Hoa Lu, Vietnam's 10th-century ancient capital. Feel the historical gravity as you explore the temples dedicated to the revered Emperors Dinh Tien Hoang and Le Dai Hanh, who secured Vietnam's independence.

Next, we hike to Bich Dong Pagoda. Cross the stunning stone bridge and ascend over 100 steps through caves and grottoes to Chua Thuong, where you will be rewarded with an incredible, sweeping panoramic view of the Ninh Binh countryside—a true moment of conquest and awe.

The highlight of the afternoon is Tam Coc. Board a private sampan boat for a magical ninety-minute cruise along the Ngo Dong River. Your local rower will skillfully navigate through three stunning caves, revealing a landscape of stunning limestone peaks, peaceful rice fields, and isolated temples—a genuine feeling of exclusive discovery in Vietnam's natural wonder.

• Included: English Speaking Guide, Meal (B, L), Private Transportation, Entrance Fees, Tam Coc Boat Trip.

• Accommodation: Conifer Grand Hotel (Deluxe Room) or similar.

The Promise: Trade the city’s hustle for the serene majesty of Halong Bay, sleeping under the stars amidst 2,000 karst islands.

After a comfortable 2.5 to 3-hour journey through the dynamic delta, you arrive at Tuan Chau Marina. You are warmly welcomed aboard your luxury cruise ship for an unforgettable two-day, one-night experience in the UNESCO World Heritage site of Halong Bay.

Savor a delectable Vietnamese and international lunch as the cruise ship sails past iconic, legendary formations like the Incense Burner and Fighting Cock Islets. The afternoon invites active discovery as you visit a local Pearl Farm and enjoy kayaking through the tranquil emerald waters. Feel the profound closeness to nature as you navigate the quiet, hidden corners of the bay. Later, explore the colossal beauty of Sung Sot Cave (Surprising Cave), marveling at the giant, millennia-old stalactite formations.

Return to the sundeck for Happy Hour to witness a breathtaking sunset over the Gulf of Tonkin—a moment of pure, unfiltered escape. The evening culminates with a deluxe dinner and the unique fun of squid fishing under the bay's illuminated sky.

• Included: Shuttle Bus (Hanoi - Tuan Chau), English Speaking Guide (On Board), Meal (B, L, D), Entrance Fees, Kayaking, Squid Fishing.

• Accommodation: Mila Cruise (Deluxe Cabin) or similar.

The Promise: Awaken your senses with a sunrise Tai Chi session and be magically transported from the Northern seas to the Central Coast's charm.

Greet the day with a gentle Tai Chi session on the sundeck as the sun rises, painting the limestone peaks in golden light—a truly spiritual start to your day. Enjoy a light breakfast before making the final conquest of the bay with a visit to Titov Island. Climb to the peak for the most stunning panoramic view of the entire bay, a perfect reward for your early start.

After brunch on board, you disembark and are transferred back to Hanoi. Our service ensures a smooth connection, transferring you directly to Noi Bai Airport for your swift, comfortable flight to Da Nang.

Upon arrival, your Central Vietnam guide greets you and drives you the short distance to Hoi An, the lantern-lit ancient trading port. Check into your hotel and enjoy the rest of the day to relax, already feeling the warm, gentle atmosphere of this historic town.

• Included: English Speaking Guide, Meal (B, L), Private Transportation, Entrance Fees, Flight (HAN-DAD), Tai Chi.

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

The Promise: Wander through 400 years of living history and connect with the genuine warmth of local farmers.

Your Hoi An cultural discovery begins with a walking tour through this UNESCO World Heritage site, where cultures—Vietnamese, Chinese, and Japanese—seamlessly blend. Feel the reverence as you walk the streets, stopping at the iconic Japanese Covered Bridge (Chua Cau), preserved for over four centuries. Explore the vibrant Fujian Assembly Hall (Phuc Kien), a spectacular display of dragon carvings and colorful fountains, and step inside the authentic Quan Thang Ancient House to glimpse the daily life of a merchant family.

In the afternoon, we trade the ancient streets for the serene countryside at Tra Que Farming Village. This is your chance for authentic local interaction. You’ll learn about the aromatic herbs (mint, basil) used in traditional Vietnamese medicine and cuisine. Meet the local farmers and even try your hand at cultivating the soil, connecting you directly to the land and people of Central Vietnam.

• Included: English Speaking Guide, Meal (B), Private Transportation, Entrance Fees.

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

The Promise: Step into a mysterious, sacred valley and connect with the lost Hindu civilization of the Champa Kingdom.

Embark on a half-day excursion to My Son Sanctuary , the former intellectual and religious heart of the Champa Kingdom. Located 40km from Hoi An, this UNESCO World Heritage site preserves the ruins of 70 unique brick and stone temples dating from the 7th to the 13th centuries.

Your guide will vividly bring the site to life, explaining the intricate architecture and the cultural values of this ancient Hindu civilization. As you explore the atmospheric, jungle-shrouded ruins, you'll feel a profound sense of mystery and wonder. Your tour is enriched by attending a mesmerizing traditional Champa dancing show, offering a beautiful, living connection to the past monarchs and deities once honored here.

You return to Hoi An in the early afternoon, leaving you free to enjoy the town's vibrant shopping or relax by the beach.

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

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

The Promise: Experience the breathtaking conquest of the legendary Hai Van Pass and step into the grandeur of Vietnam’s Imperial City.

Today, the journey itself is the star! We travel from Hoi An to Hue, the former Imperial Capital, via the spectacular coastal route. Our first stop is Cham Museum in Da Nang, home to the world’s most important collection of Cham culture artifacts. We pause at My Khe Beach for a photo opportunity, capturing the iconic coastline.

Then, the thrill begins: we ascend the Hai Van Pass (Sea Cloud Pass). Stop at the summit to capture the breathtaking panoramic view of the ocean, the coast, and Da Nang city—a true moment of unforgettable awe.

Upon arrival in Hue, the historical journey accelerates. We visit Thien Mu Pagoda, Hue's spiritual highlight, known for its majestic Octagon Tower and poetic view of the Perfume River. Finally, we immerse ourselves in the Hue Citadel, a vast fortress inspired by Vauban designs, encompassing the Imperial City and the Forbidden City. This visit instills a deep sense of historical reverence for the power of the Nguyen Dynasty.

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

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

The Promise: Contrast imperial splendor with the pure tranquility of local village life, connecting with Hue’s gentle soul.

Begin your day with an exploration of Emperor Minh Mang's Tomb, an architectural masterpiece renowned for its harmonious integration with nature. Marvel at the symmetry and scale of this elaborate complex, built by his successor, which exemplifies the perfect balance between man-made grandeur and natural serenity.

Next, we take a tranquil Royal Boat Trip along the Perfume River (Huong River) to Thuy Bieu Village. This is a beautiful opportunity for closeness to nature and authentic local interaction. Upon arrival, you’ll bike under the shade of famous grapefruit trees, breathing in their pleasant aroma. We visit a traditional garden house and a village temple, feeling the peaceful rhythm of life here.

The experience culminates in a hands-on cooking class! Learn to prepare and savor authentic Hue specialties before relaxing and transferring back to the city in the afternoon, concluding a day of imperial history and rural peace.

• Included: English Speaking Guide, Meal (B, L), Boat Trip, Private Transportation, Entrance Fees, Bike Rental, Cooking Class.

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

The Promise: A smooth conclusion to your 10-day Vietnamese odyssey, carrying a lifetime of memories.

Enjoy a final leisurely breakfast at your hotel in Hue. Our driver will meet you at the lobby and provide a comfortable, private transfer to Phu Bai Airport for your onward flight.

Departing with a heart full of cherished memories—from the bustling lanes of Hanoi to the peaceful waters of Halong Bay and the imperial grandeur of Hue—you carry with you a deeper understanding and appreciation of Vietnam’s rich heritage.

• Included: Meal (B), Private Transportation.