Northern & Central Vietnam Landscapes 12 Days Culture & Nature

• Location: Hanoi

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

• Inclusions: B, Transportation, Entrance Fees, Water Puppet Show

Step back in time as we begin at the Temple of Literature, Vietnam's first national university (11th century). Wander through its serene courtyards, admire the symbolic Khue Van Cac, and reflect on centuries of scholarship at the "stone steles" dedicated to outstanding students. The afternoon introduces you to the sophisticated ambiance of the French Quarter—Hanoi's "little Paris." We explore the revered Ho Chi Minh Complex, including the tranquil Presidential Palace, his humble House on Stilts, and the unique One-Pillar Pagoda. Later, find spiritual peace at Quan Thanh Temple and the 6th-century Tran Quoc Pagoda on the West Lake, enjoying a romantic walk along the causeway. Conclude your day with the magical and unique Water Puppet Show, an ancient art form that brings Vietnamese folklore to life on the water's surface.

• Location: Hanoi - Mai Chau (145km - 3.5h)

• Accommodation: Mai Chau Valley View Hotel (Deluxe Valley View) or similar

• Inclusions: B, L, Guide, Transportation, Bike Rental

Today, you leave the city for the captivating landscapes of the Northwest. The journey to Mai Chau is an adventure in itself, featuring a stop at a traditional Muong village and offering a breathtaking panoramic view from the summit of the Thung Khe Pass. This moment reveals the patchwork tapestry of rice fields nestled between green mountain ranges. Upon arrival, settle into your accommodation before embarking on an immersive afternoon exploration. Choose between a relaxing walk or a scenic bike ride through the White Thai villages of Lac, Na Phon, and Poong Com. Engage with the locals, observe rural life, and see the intricate work of weaving craftsmen, offering a true sense of authentic Vietnamese village warmth.

• Location: Mai Chau - Ninh Binh (150km - 3.5h)

• Accommodation: Lalita Boutique Hotel (Deluxe Room) or similar

• Inclusions: B, L, Guide, Transportation, Bike Rental

Awake to the crisp, fresh air of the valley. Today, we delve deeper into the countryside at Mai Hich village. Choose your pace with a 6km walk or a 12km cycle along trails that perfectly blend mountains, streams, and rice fields. You will be utterly seduced by the gorgeous landscapes and the peaceful atmosphere. This is a precious opportunity to connect with friendly local people who are often eager to invite you into their homes for a cup of tea. After lunch, enjoy a scenic transfer to Ninh Binh, the gateway to the "Inland Halong Bay," where your beautiful boutique hotel awaits.

• Location: Ninh Binh - Hanoi (100km - 2h)

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

• Inclusions: B, L, Guide, Boat Trip (Tam Coc), Transportation, Entrance Fees

Prepare for a day of awe-inspiring wonder. Your morning begins at Tam Coc, famous as the setting for the French film Indochina. Board a private sampan boat for a mesmerizing ninety-minute cruise along the Ngo Dong River, gracefully weaving through three mysterious caves and past stunning landscapes of rice fields and towering limestone karsts. This experience offers a profound sense of serenity. Next, hike up to the 15th-century Bich Dong Pagoda for incredible countryside views. Conclude your Ninh Binh exploration at Hoa Lu, the ancient capital, where you visit the solemn temples dedicated to the revered Emperors Dinh Tien Hoang and Le Dai Hanh. Later, you'll be transferred back to Hanoi, ready for your cruise departure.

• Location: Hanoi - Halong Bay (160km - 3h)

• Accommodation: Mila Cruise - 2D1N (Deluxe Cabin)

• Inclusions: B, L, D, Shuttle Bus (Hanoi - Tuan Chau), Onboard Guide, Entrance Fees, Swimming, Squid Fishing, Cooking Demo

The pinnacle of Northern Vietnam awaits! After a comfortable shuttle transfer to Tuan Chau Marina, you board your luxury cruise ship. Enjoy a warm welcome and settle into your cabin before indulging in a Vietnamese and international gourmet lunch. The ship glides past iconic islets, including the Fighting Cock Islet, creating an immediate feeling of unparalleled escape. The afternoon is dedicated to exploration: kayak near the Pearl Farm and be utterly astounded by the formations inside Sung Sot Cave (Surprising Cave), the largest in the area. Enjoy a sunset Happy Hour before a deluxe fusion dinner. The evening offers relaxation, a movie, or the thrill of squid fishing under the stars.

• Location: Halong Bay - Hoi An

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

• Inclusions: B, L, Guide, Transportation, Entrance Fees, Morning Tai Chi, Domestic Flight (HAN - DAD)

Start your final bay morning with a revitalizing Tai Chi session on the sundeck. The highlight of the morning is a visit to Titov Island, known for its beautiful sandy beaches and, more importantly, its peak, which offers the ultimate panoramic view of the entire bay—a moment you’ll never forget. Enjoy a final elegant brunch as you cruise back to the marina. After disembarking, a seamless transfer will take you back to Noi Bai Airport for your flight to Da Nang. Upon arrival, your local guide will greet you and transfer you to Hoi An, where the timeless charm of the ancient town immediately welcomes you.

• Location: Hoi An

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

• Inclusions: B, Transportation, Entrance Fees

Dive deep into the magic of Hoi An, a UNESCO World Heritage site known as one of Southeast Asia's most important trading ports from the 15th to 19th centuries. Your walking tour reveals the city’s rich, preserved history: cross the iconic 400-year-old Japanese Covered Bridge, visit the ancient Cam Pho Communal House, and step inside the authentic Quan Thang Ancient House to glimpse traditional family life. The tour continues to the ornate Fujian (Phuc Kien) Assembly Hall. In the afternoon, shift gears to a sensory adventure at the Tra Que farming village, famous for its aromatic herbs. Learn about vegetable cultivation and enjoy an authentic interaction with local farmers, awakening your senses with the fragrant mint and basil.

• Location: Hoi An - My Son - Hoi An (40km - 1h)

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

• Inclusions: B, L, Guide, Transportation, Entrance Fees

Today is dedicated to profound historical discovery at My Son Sanctuary, the sacred valley and former intellectual and religious heart of the Champa Kingdom. Designated a World Culture Heritage site, you'll feel the atmosphere of ancient worship as you leisurely visit the 70 ruined works of brick and stone, built between the 7th and 13th centuries. Your guide will illuminate the rich cultural and architectural values of this lost civilization. Your visit is enriched by attending a vibrant traditional Champa dancing show before you return to Hoi An for a free afternoon to relax or explore the lantern-lit streets.

• Location: Hoi An - Hue (125km - 3h)

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

• Inclusions: B, L, Guide, Transportation, Entrance Fees

The scenic drive to Hue is a highlight in itself! We travel along the spectacular coastline, pausing in Da Nang to visit the Cham Museum, home to the world's most important collections of Cham sculpture. We then conquer the iconic Hai Van Pass ("Sea Cloud Pass"), stopping at the summit for breathtaking panoramic views where the mountains plunge dramatically into the ocean. Upon arrival in Hue, enjoy lunch before visiting the majestic Thien Mu Pagoda, an iconic seven-story pagoda known for its spiritual significance and picturesque view of the Perfume River. Finally, immerse yourself in the imperial grandeur of the Hue Citadel, exploring the Forbidden City (Cam Thanh) and the Palace of Supreme Harmony.

• Location: Hue (20km - 0.5h)

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

• Inclusions: B, L, Guide, Boat Trip (Huong River), Transportation, Entrance Fees, Bike Rental, Cooking Class

Your final full day is a beautiful blend of history and local life. We begin at the Tomb of Emperor Minh Mang, an architectural masterpiece renowned for its perfect harmony with nature and meticulous design. Next, board a traditional dragon boat for a serene cruise along the Huong River (Perfume River) to Thuy Bieu Village. Here, you’ll trade the boat for a bicycle to cycle under the shade of unique grapefruit trees, enjoying the pleasant perfume aroma. Visit a traditional garden house and engage with villagers. The day culminates in a hands-on cooking class where you learn to prepare and then savor authentic Hue specialties for lunch.

• Location: Hue

• Inclusions: B, Transportation

After a final breakfast at your hotel, enjoy a leisurely morning in the ancient capital. At the appropriate time, your private driver will ensure a seamless and comfortable transfer to Phu Bai Airport (HUI) for your onward journey, leaving you with cherished memories of Vietnam’s stunning landscapes and profound cultural heritage.